Reform UK councillor Glenn Gibbins has been charged with posting a grossly offensive message on social media after allegedly making a racist comment about Nigerians. Northumbria police confirmed the charge under the Communications Act 2003 relates to a 2024 post referencing the Nigerian community.
Investigation and court appearance
The force was alerted to the post in May 2026, the same month Gibbins was elected to Sunderland City Council. Following an investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised the charge. The 66-year-old from Sunderland is due to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates Court on 21 August 2026.
A Northumbria police spokesperson said: “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.”
Political context and calls for explanation
Gibbins was one of more than 1,400 Reform UK councillors elected across England in May 2026, as Nigel Farage's party took control of 14 councils, including Sunderland, Barnsley, St Helens, and Thurrock. The election marked a significant breakthrough for the party.
Labour Party chair Bridget Phillipson called on Farage to explain why Gibbins was reinstated after an internal disciplinary process. Phillipson said: “Nigel Farage needs to urgently explain why he welcomed Glenn Gibbins back into Reform just last month.”
