A Reform UK councillor has been charged over an allegedly offensive social media post that targeted the Nigerian community.
Northumbria Police said Glenn Gibbins, 66, from the Sunderland area, was charged under the Communications Act 2003 in connection with a post made in 2024. The message read: “Carnt believe amount of nigerians in town…..should melt them all down and fill in the pot holes!!”
Police were first alerted to the post in May and launched an investigation before referring the case to the Crown Prosecution Service, which authorised the charge.
Gibbins had earlier been investigated by Reform UK over the same post. The party issued him a final written warning, suspended him and later reinstated him.
He is due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on 21 August.
A police spokesperson urged the public to avoid speculation online or in the community while legal proceedings continue, noting significant public interest in the case.
A Reform UK spokesperson said the party was aware of the developments and would monitor the court’s decision closely.
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