Amaka Sonnberger, a Nigerian expatriate based in Canada, has been apprehended by Toronto Police for allegedly making hate-motivated threats against Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin descent. If convicted, she faces up to two years in prison or possible deportation.
Sonnberger, 46, is scheduled to appear in court on September 2, 2024, following her arrest on September 1, 2024. The charges stem from her recent online statements, where she purportedly incited violence against members of these Nigerian communities.
According to Section 319(1a) of the Canadian Criminal Code, anyone convicted of inciting hatred that could lead to public unrest may be sentenced to up to two years in prison. The law outlines that statements made publicly which incite hatred against identifiable groups, likely to breach the peace, can result in severe penalties.
If Sonnberger is found guilty, her sentence will depend on her citizenship status. Canadian citizens face the possibility of incarceration, while non-citizens, including those with temporary or permanent residency, might face deportation if convicted. This information is corroborated by the “Migrants Know Your Rights Guide,” which notes that prison sentences exceeding six months can jeopardize immigration status.
The case against Sonnberger follows a virtual broadcast on TikTok, where she allegedly called for poisoning Yoruba and Benin individuals. Her threats, expressed in Pidgin English, sparked significant backlash from the Nigerian community and prompted a swift investigation by the Toronto Police Hate Crime Unit.
The Toronto Police issued a statement confirming Sonnberger’s arrest, detailing the hate-motivated nature of the threats and the ongoing investigation. The statement noted that if convicted, hate is considered an aggravating factor in sentencing. Additionally, hate speech charges, such as promoting hatred or advocating genocide, require the Attorney General’s consent and may involve lengthy legal proceedings.
Sonnberger had reportedly claimed immunity from arrest due to her Canadian citizenship, a stance now challenged by the unfolding legal process.
