Toronto police have arrested Amaka Sunnberger, a Canada-based Nigerian woman, for issuing death threats against Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin descent in a video that went viral. The arrest, which took place on Sunday, September 1, 2024, comes after widespread outrage and calls for her prosecution from both Nigerian lawmakers and the diaspora community.
In a statement released by the Toronto Police, it was confirmed that Sunnberger has been charged with uttering threats and will appear in court at the Ontario Court of Justice, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Monday, September 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. The case is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence, reflecting the gravity of her actions.
Sunnberger’s inflammatory remarks, which included threats of violence and genocide against the Yoruba and Benin people, sparked a national outcry in Nigeria. The Nigerian House of Representatives swiftly responded by urging the Canadian government to take legal action against her. They argued that her statements incited violence and posed a significant threat to the targeted communities.
In addition, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), also took steps to ensure that Sunnberger faces justice. She wrote a petition to Honourable Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, Canada, emphasizing the seriousness of the threats and the need for swift legal action.
As the legal proceedings begin, the case has highlighted the global reach of hate speech and the importance of international cooperation in addressing such threats. Sunnberger’s court appearance is expected to draw significant attention, both in Canada and Nigeria, as authorities seek to hold her accountable for her actions.
