London Council Reclaims Social Housing Flat Rented by Sierra Leone First Lady
A social housing flat in London rented by Fatima Jabbe-Bio, the first lady of Sierra Leone, has been repossessed by Southwark council. The two-bedroom property in Walworth had been occupied by Jabbe-Bio, whose tenancy was first reported last year.
Fatima Jabbe-Bio, married to Sierra Leone’s president Julius Maada Bio, has been listed as the tenant since 2007. Since her husband’s election in 2018, she has split her time between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.
Council housing regulations specify that council properties should generally be the tenant’s principal residence. An investigation by The Times raised questions about whether the south London flat met this requirement, as neighbours reported rarely seeing Jabbe-Bio at the property.
Council Statement on Property Recovery
Reginald Popoola, Southwark’s executive member for council homes, announced the recovery of the flat, stating:
“We can confirm we have taken possession of a property in Walworth following a 12-month investigation by our housing investigations team.”
He added that the flat would be allocated to a family on the council’s waiting list, saying:
“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.”
Background and Public Attention
The case attracted significant attention after reports indicated that Jabbe-Bio retained the tenancy despite residing for much of the year in the presidential lodge in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
In an interview with the BBC last month, Jabbe-Bio defended her decision to keep the flat and denied any wrongdoing. The former model and actor stated:
“My children are all British citizens. I’m paying for my council house myself. I have not committed any crime.”
There have been no charges brought against Jabbe-Bio in relation to this matter.
Context of Social Housing Pressure
The recovery of this property occurs amid significant pressure on social housing in London, characterized by growing waiting lists, increasing homelessness, and rising demand for temporary accommodation.
In Southwark alone, council data indicates that more than 18,000 households are currently on the waiting list for social housing. Approximately 4,000 households reside in temporary accommodation while awaiting permanent housing.
Local authorities have intensified efforts to address tenancy violations and recover properties where agreements are breached. Southwark council reported investigating all allegations of tenancy fraud and unlawful occupation, resulting in the recovery of 107 properties over the past two years.
The council has not disclosed specific details regarding the findings of its investigation into Jabbe-Bio’s tenancy.
