Amaka Patience Sonnberger, a Canadian-Nigerian woman, is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, September 2, 2024, following her arrest by Toronto Police.
She faces charges related to allegedly issuing hate-motivated threats against members of the Nigerian community..
The 46-year-old Sonnberger was detained on Sunday following an investigation into online threats she made on August 25. These threats reportedly targeted members of the Yoruba and Benin communities, with claims of violent intentions.
According to a statement from the Toronto Police Service, Sonnberger was charged with uttering threats and will appear at the Ontario Court of Justice. The Toronto Police Hate Crime Unit is handling the case, treating it as a suspected hate-motivated offense.
The statement noted that the investigation was prompted by a report received on August 28, 2024. The police urged anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers.
The Toronto Police Service also highlighted that hate-motivated crimes may involve consultations with the Crown, and if convicted, hate is considered an aggravating factor in sentencing. Charges related to hate speech, such as promoting hatred or advocating genocide, require the Attorney General’s consent and may face delays.
In response to Sonnberger’s threats, the House of Representatives and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission have petitioned Canadian authorities for her investigation and prosecution. Sonnberger had previously dismissed the possibility of arrest or deportation despite calls from the Nigerian government and prominent figures like Peter Obi and Abubakar Atiku for swift justice.
A video clip featuring Sonnberger making threats against the Yoruba and Benin communities went viral on social media, sparking outrage among Nigerians and calls for unity and tolerance.
