Key facts
- Southwark Council has taken possession of a council property linked to Sierra Leone's First Lady, Fatima Bio.
- The action follows a 12-month investigation by the council's Housing Investigations Team.
- The property will be reallocated to a family with legitimate housing needs.
- The council stated that Fatima Bio has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing.
- Bio had previously defended her retention of the property, citing her children's British citizenship and her own payment for the accommodation.
Southwark Council has confirmed it has taken possession of a council property linked to Fatima Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, following a year-long investigation. The council stated the property will be swiftly allocated to a local family in genuine housing need, addressing concerns about its occupation amid significant demand for affordable homes.