UK Councillor Charged Over Post Saying Nigerians Should Be ‘Melted to Fill Potholes’

Reform UK councillor faces criminal charge over alleged offensive social media post targeting Nigerians in 2024.

Glenn Gibbins, a councillor with the Reform UK party, has been charged over a social media post in which he allegedly suggested that Nigerians should be “melted down” to fill potholes.

Northumbria Police confirmed on Wednesday that the 66-year-old has been charged under the Communications Act 2003 over the post, which was made in 2024.

According to police, the investigation began after the force received a report about the post in May. Following its inquiries, investigators submitted a case file to the Crown Prosecution Service, which authorised the criminal charge.

The controversial post read: “Carnt believe amount of nigerians in town…..should melt them all down and fill in the pot holes!!”

The comment drew widespread criticism after resurfacing, prompting an internal investigation by Reform UK.

Reports indicated that Gibbins was initially suspended by the party but was later reinstated after receiving a final written warning.

Northumbria Police urged members of the public to avoid speculation while the legal process continues.

“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.

The force disclosed that Gibbins, who is from the Sunderland area, is expected to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on August 21.

Reacting to the development, a spokesperson for Reform UK said the party was aware of the charge and would closely monitor the outcome of the court proceedings.

The spokesperson added that the party would await the court’s verdict before making any further decisions regarding the councillor.

The case has attracted attention in the United Kingdom and among members of the Nigerian community, with many condemning the alleged remarks as offensive and discriminatory.

The prosecution is expected to determine whether the social media post breached provisions of the Communications Act relating to offensive electronic communications.