A wave of reactions has followed the election victory of a UK politician who previously sparked outrage with offensive comments about Nigerians and women on social media.

Glenn Gibbins, a candidate of Reform UK, won a seat representing Hylton Castle Ward in Sunderland despite criticism surrounding his past online remarks.

Among the controversial posts linked to Gibbins was a statement suggesting Nigerians should be melted down to fill potholes a comment that has since drawn condemnation online after resurfacing following his election victory.

The councillor also reportedly made several derogatory comments about women and female sports commentators. In another post, he allegedly described television hosts Mel and Sue as the two funniest fat repulsive lesbian hosts ever.He also criticised the growing presence of female commentators in sports broadcasting, saying women should “stick to cooking, sewing and homemaking.

The controversy has intensified scrutiny around candidates elected under the Reform UK platform during the local elections.  Another elected councillor, Jay Cooper, also faced backlash over alleged posts questioning the Holocaust and promoting conspiracy theories surrounding the September 11 attacks.

The developments have triggered widespread debate online, with many questioning how politicians linked to such controversial remarks continue to gain electoral support.