The ex-Sugababes member was in a relationship with ex-Kenya and Luton Town footballer Taiwo Leo Atieno from 2015 to 2018.
Keisha Buchanan, formerly of the Sugababes, reportedly endured physical abuse from her ex-boyfriend that necessitated medical attention.
Buchanan was romantically involved with Taiwo Leo Atieno, a 39-year-old former professional footballer, from 2015 until 2018. Atieno is alleged to have engaged in abusive behavior towards Buchanan over a decade, with Buchanan reporting these incidents to the authorities in December 2024.
During the period of her relationship, Buchanan, now 40, reunited with Sugababes members Mutya Buena and Siobhán Donaghy. Despite her public appearances, she was privately struggling in an abusive partnership, according to a report by the Mirror.
Atieno is accused of physically assaulting her three times, including one severe incident that required Buchanan to seek physiotherapy. She described experiencing intense pain in her lower back as if she had been kicked.
Furthermore, Atieno reportedly exerted control over various aspects of Buchanan’s life, including her correspondence, financial affairs, and diet. He also dictated her public appearance, controlling the way she presented herself outside their home.
Following their breakup, Atieno allegedly continued to harass Buchanan and violated a court order designed to prevent him from making contact with her.
At a recent hearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court, Prosecutor Edward Kalber highlighted the severity of the offenses, noting both the psychological and physical toll they took on Buchanan. Kalber reported that Atieno restricted Buchanan from managing her personal finances and critiqued her appearance, particularly taking issue with her wearing red lipstick, which he derogatively associated with looking like a prostitute.
The control extended to restricting her television viewing and dictating her eating habits, contributing to dietary issues. Allegedly, Atieno also controlled Buchanan’s shower usage and gym visits while they lived together.
Despite Buchanan having blocked Atieno after their split, he reportedly sent her emails over three years and demanded £25,000 from her.
Atieno, from Kennington, southwest London, is currently held in custody. He appeared in court dressed in cream trousers and a blue top, pleading not guilty to all four charges against him. The case is set to be addressed later today by Deputy District Judge Clare Boichot.
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
