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.
