Canadian police arrest Amaka Sunnberger for hate-motivated threats against Nigerian communities

Canadian law enforcement has taken decisive action against Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Toronto-based woman of Nigerian origin, following her threatening statements against specific ethnic groups within Nigeria.

Sunnberger, 46, was arrested by the Toronto Police Service after an investigation into online content she posted on August 25, 2024, in which she allegedly incited violence against the Yoruba and Benin communities of Nigeria.

In the controversial video, which quickly gained widespread attention, Sunnberger boasted of her immunity from arrest and prosecution, claiming her Canadian citizenship would shield her from legal repercussions.

This sparked a significant public outcry, particularly within the Nigerian community, leading to calls for her immediate arrest.

The Toronto Police Service confirmed her arrest on September 1, 2024, and released a statement on their website detailing the charges against her.

According to the police, Sunnberger has been charged with uttering threats, a crime that is being investigated as a potential hate-motivated offence. She is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice on September 2, 2024.

READ ALSO: Election results: Foundation cautions Nigerians against unguided utterances, hate speech

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, including prominent Nigerian political figures. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi were among those who publicly denounced Sunnberger’s remarks.

Additionally, the Nigerian House of Representatives formally petitioned the Canadian government, urging them to take swift action against Sunnberger for her inflammatory statements.

Toronto Police have urged anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.

They have provided contact details for both direct communication with investigators and anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers. As the case unfolds, it continues to highlight the complex issues surrounding hate speech, ethnic tensions, and the responsibilities of individuals in online spaces.

Prominent Nigerians including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, had publicly condemned the woman while the House of Representatives had also petitioned the Canadian authorities to arrest and prosecute Sunnberger over the death threats.