Amaka Sonnberger, a 46-year-old Canadian-Nigerian woman, was arrested by the Toronto Police on September 1, 2024, for allegedly making hate-motivated threats against members of the Yoruba and Benin communities. This incident has sparked widespread outrage both in Canada and Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need to address hate speech and violence.
Nature of the Threats
The controversy began when Sonnberger allegedly posted a video on August 25, 2024, during a virtual meeting on TikTok, where she made inflammatory remarks threatening to poison individuals from the Yoruba and Benin ethnic groups. In the video, she stated in Pidgin English, “Record me very well; it’s time to start poisoning the Yoruba and Benin. Put poison for all una food for work. Put poison for una water; make una dey kpai one by one.” This alarming rhetoric quickly went viral, prompting significant backlash from the Nigerian community.
Arrest and Charges
Following reports received on August 28, 2024, the Toronto Police Hate Crime Unit launched an investigation, leading to Sonnberger’s arrest. She has been charged with uttering threats and is scheduled to appear in court on September 2, 2024. If convicted under Section 319(1) of the Canadian Criminal Code, she could face up to two years in prison. Furthermore, if Sonnberger is found to be a migrant, she could also face deportation.
Community Reactions
The threats made by Sonnberger have ignited outrage among Nigerians, both in Canada and back home. Prominent figures, including former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have condemned her actions, calling for justice and swift legal action. The Nigerian House of Representatives has formally requested that the Canadian government investigate and prosecute Sonnberger for inciting violence and hate speech.
The Nigerian community in Canada has expressed deep concern over the incident, viewing it as a reflection of the broader issues of racism and xenophobia that immigrants often face. Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for accountability, emphasising the need for unity against hate.
Legal Implications
The Toronto Police have indicated that hate will be considered an aggravating factor in sentencing if Sonnberger is convicted. The legal framework surrounding hate-motivated crimes in Canada is complex, requiring that a criminal offence be motivated by hate or bias toward an identifiable group. The police have urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward, as the investigation is ongoing.
The arrest of Amaka Sonnberger underscores the serious nature of hate-motivated threats and the importance of addressing such issues promptly. As the legal proceedings unfold, the Nigerian community and the broader public will be watching closely to see how justice is served. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges that ethnic minorities face and the need for vigilance in combating hate speech and violence in all forms.
By Joseph Johnston
Youth Editor
Egogonews hub
