Former professional footballer Taiwo Leo Atieno has appeared in court facing multiple charges connected to the alleged abuse of singer Keisha Buchanan, a founding member of the UK pop group Sugababes.
Atieno, 39, is accused of assault and coercive control over a 13-year span in his past relationship with Buchanan.
The former Luton Town and Kenya international is charged with a total of eight offences, including actual bodily harm and exerting control over the singer’s everyday life—reportedly dictating when she could shower, wear red lipstick, and attend the gym.
Appearing via video-link at Harrow Crown Court (sitting at Southwark), Atieno wore a dark suit and tie. He was granted conditional bail and is expected to formally enter pleas at a hearing scheduled for August.
Prosecutors allege that between 2012 and 2015, Atieno assaulted Buchanan and maintained a pattern of controlling behaviour—intercepting her personal mail, limiting her access to funds, and regulating her personal routines.
The court issued strict bail conditions, including a prohibition on contacting Ms Buchanan or entering the Barnet area. He was also ordered to surrender his passport.
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Keisha Buchanan rose to fame as a teenager in the late ’90s with the formation of the Sugababes alongside Mutya Buena and Siobhán Donaghy.
The group enjoyed considerable success, securing six number-one singles and two chart-topping albums.
After a stint performing as “Mutya Keisha Siobhán,” the original trio regained the Sugababes name in 2019 and continue to perform under the iconic banner.
The case marks a serious turn in public scrutiny of high-profile relationships and domestic abuse allegations. Further court proceedings are set for later this summer.