A Reform UK councillor has been charged with allegedly posting a grossly offensive social media comment referencing the Nigerian community in Sunderland.
The charge, brought under the Communications Act 2003, relates to a post made in 2024 by Glenn Gibbins, who represents Sunderland’s Hylton Castle ward.
The 66-year-old had previously been investigated by Reform UK over the post and was issued a final written warning after an internal disciplinary process.
Northumbria Police confirmed the charge on Wednesday, saying it followed an investigation into the deleted post, which resurfaced after Gibbins was elected in May.
He is scheduled to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court in August.
Police said they received a report in May 2026 and submitted a file to the Crown Prosecution Service, which subsequently authorised the charge.
“We are aware there has already been significant interest in relation to this individual and the social media post. We would urge people not to speculate both online and in the community in relation to this case,” a police spokesperson said.
Gibbins was initially suspended by Reform UK after the post emerged but was reinstated in June following the party’s internal disciplinary process.
A Reform UK spokesperson said: “Following an internal disciplinary process, Cllr Gibbins has been readmitted to the party and issued with a final written warning.”
Responding to the criminal charge, the party added: “The party is aware of the situation involving Councillor Gibbins. We will monitor the verdict closely.”