London council takes possession of property linked to Sierra Leone's First Lady

BBC

Southwark Council has confirmed that it has taken possession of a council property linked to Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Bio, following a year-long investigation.

The development comes weeks after she discussed the property during an interview with BBC Global Women.

During that interview, she spoke about escaping a proposed child marriage, seeking asylum in Britain and eventually becoming one of the most prominent women in Sierra Leone.

She also defended retaining the south London council flat, saying: “My children are all British citizens.” She added: “I’m paying for my council house myself. I have not committed any crime.”

With more than 18,000 people on the Southwark’s waiting list for housing, the council’s website says that “even people in the greatest need can face several years’ wait”.

Bio’s comments attracted attention in both the UK and Sierra Leone, prompting renewed discussion about the property’s status.

In a statement to the BBC, Reginald Popoola, Southwark Council’s executive member for council homes, said: “We can confirm we have taken possession of a property in Walworth following a 12-month investigation by our Housing Investigations Team.

“I look forward to bringing this council property back to its original purpose which is to provide a safe and secure home for people with legitimate housing need on the council’s waiting list,” the councillor said.

“This property will be swiftly allocated to a local family in genuine housing need.”

The council did not state that the first lady had been evicted, as has been reported in some media. Nor did the authority allege criminal wrongdoing.

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The council also highlighted its wider efforts to tackle tenancy fraud and unlawful occupation. According to Southwark, 107 council properties have been recovered over the past two years following investigations.

Council housing in London remains under significant pressure, with many boroughs having long waiting lists amid rising demand for affordable homes.

Following Southwark Council’s announcement, BBC Global Women contacted Fatima Bio’s office for comment.

A spokesperson responded: “I am not aware of this report and I am afraid I am not in a position to comment with a response.”