The development comes weeks after she discussed the property during an interview with Source.
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 her children are all British citizens and she is paying for the council house herself, adding she has not committed any crime.
With more than 18,000 people on Southwark’s waiting list for housing the council’s website says even people in the greatest need can face several years of waiting.
Bio’s comments attracted attention in both the UK and Sierra Leone, prompting renewed discussion about the property’s status.
In a statement to Source Reginald Popoola, Southwark Council’s executive member for council homes, said they can confirm they have taken possession of a property in Walworth following a 12 month investigation by their Housing Investigations Team.
He said he looks 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 waiting list, adding the 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.
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 Source contacted Fatima Bio’s office for comment.
A spokesperson responded they were not aware of the report and were not in a position to comment.
