Nigerian-born politician elected UK party’s leader

Celia Hibbert, a British-Nigerian councillor, has been unanimously elected as the leader of Reform UK on Wolverhampton City Council, taking on the role of official opposition leader.

Announcing her appointment on Wednesday via social media, Hibbert expressed her gratitude, saying the party had recognized her “ability, character, and commitment to public service.”

Reflecting on her political journey, Hibbert contrasted her experience with her time in the Labour Party, noting: “It has been a refreshing and profoundly different experience from my time in The Labour Party, which, in my opinion, is often more focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, rather than on talent, merit and commitment.”

Hibbert pledged to remain focused and disciplined, prioritizing the legitimate concerns of local residents. “Every single day, I shall carry the heartbeat of the British electorate with patriotism, duty, and pride,” she added.