By our reporter 9.11.2026
A United Kingdom Reform party councilor who suggested that “Nigerians be melted down and used to fill potholes” has been given 12 months community order by South Tyneside magistrates court in South Shields.
Mr Glenn Gibbs who represents Sunderland council posted racists remarks on Facebook in March 2024, in what he said was a joke when he wrote: “Can’t believe the amount of Nigerians in town … should melt them all down and fill in the potholes!!”
During the trial on Monday the 66 years-old Gibbs maintained that it was a “cheeky”, “naughty” and “tongue in cheek” joke. He said the post was not meant to be taken literally. “It was just a bit of fun.”
But the South Tyneside magistrates court noted that the social media post was offensive. District judge Zoe Passfield ruled that the post breached the Malicious Communications Act and was grossly offensive.
She said Gibbins “intention was to be grossly offensive to Nigerians as a result of his displeasure at the number of them in the city.”
Gibbins will do unpaid 150 hours of unpaid community work for 12-month. However, his counsel Adam King, said they would be appealing against the decision to the crown court.