UK councillor charged over alleged anti-Nigerian social media post

Earlier today, the Crown Prosecution Service announced that Reform UK councillor Glenn Gibbins has been charged under the UK’s Communications Act 2003 for an alleged grossly offensive social media post from 2024 in which he suggested Nigerians should be “melted down and used to fill potholes.” Gibbins, elected as a Sunderland councillor in the May 2026 local elections, will appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court next month. The charge follows an investigation; the CPS said it authorised the charge after reviewing evidence.

The case highlights how hate speech targeting Nigerians abroad can lead to criminal prosecution, raising concerns for the diaspora and those considering migration (Japa). Although Gibbins apologised and was reinstated by Reform UK after a final written warning in June, the party said it will monitor the verdict closely. Under UK law, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Nigerians in the UK or planning to move there should be aware that such rhetoric can be reported to police and may result in legal action. If you encounter similar hateful content, consider reporting it to the platform or authorities. The outcome of this trial may influence how political parties handle extremist remarks among their members.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/30/uk-councillor-charged-over-alleged-anti-nigerian-social-media-post/