A councillor has been charged with posting a grossly offensive comment on social media in connection to a comment referencing the Nigerian community.

Sunderland City Council Reform UK councillor Glenn Gibbins was investigated by his party and given a final written warning.

The charge, under the Communications Act 2003, relates to a post from 2024.

Northumbria Police said it was “aware there has already been significant interest” in what had happened and asked people not to speculate online or in the community.

The force said the 66-year-old, from the Sunderland area, was due to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court next month.

A Reform UK spokesman said: “The party is aware of the situation involving Councillor Gibbins. We will monitor the verdict closely.”

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