Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Jabbe-Bio, is under scrutiny for maintaining a council flat tenancy in Southwark, London, despite owning multiple luxury properties in Africa.
Public records indicate she has been registered at the two-bedroom flat since 2009, with tenancy records dating back to 2007. UK social housing regulations stipulate that such properties must be a tenant’s primary residence, raising concerns about potential violations.
Fatima Jabbe-Bio, a former actress, relocated to Sierra Leone in 2018 following her husband, Julius Maada Bio’s, election as president. The couple now resides in the State Lodge in Freetown, a luxurious presidential compound equipped with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a helipad . Despite this, neighbors have reported seeing her or her daughter at the Southwark flat as recently as late 2024. Her daughter has also been spotted collecting mail addressed to the First Family.
The controversy arises amid a severe housing shortage in London, with over 336,000 households on the waiting list for social housing. A two-bedroom council flat in Southwark rents for approximately £560 per month, significantly below the market rate.
Southwark Council declined to comment on individual cases but emphasized that tenants must adhere to housing agreements. A spokesperson stated that compliance checks are conducted when necessary.
In addition to her housing situation, Fatima Jabbe-Bio has faced allegations of using her position for personal financial gain. Reports suggest that funds intended for her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign were allegedly diverted for personal expenses, including travel and accommodation costs for foreign guests.
The First Lady has also been recognized globally for her activism against child marriage and gender-based violence, speaking at venues like Harvard and the UN. She was named “First Lady of the Year” at the 2024 London Political Summit .
Authorities are now examining whether Jabbe-Bio’s council tenancy complies with UK housing laws amid broader questions about social housing fairness.
