By Atafo Igbinedion
Amaka Sonnberger, a Nigerian woman residing in Canada, has been arrested by Toronto Police after allegedly making hate-motivated threats against individuals of Yoruba and Benin descent.
Sonnberger, who was heard making the threats during a TikTok live session, could face a two-year prison sentence or potential deportation if found guilty, particularly if her immigration status is found to be temporary or permanent residency rather than full citizenship.
The incident that led to her arrest occurred during a disturbing TikTok live stream, where Sonnberger allegedly made threats in Pidgin English. She was recorded saying, “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.”
The video was widely circulated on social media, sparking outrage and concern.Toronto Police, after receiving reports of the incident on August 28, 2024, acted swiftly.
In a statement, they said, “Toronto Police have arrested a woman in connection with a suspected hate-motivated threat investigation. The arrest follows a report received on August 28, 2024, regarding a threatening incident.”
Sonnberger’s case is being taken seriously under Canadian law. According to Section 319 (1a) of the Canadian Criminal Code, anyone convicted of inciting hatred against an identifiable group could face up to two years in prison.
The section specifies, “Everyone who, by communicating statements in any public place, incites hatred against any identifiable group where such incitement is likely to lead to a breach of the peace is guilty of (a) an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or (b) an offence punishable on summary conviction.”
The situation could become even more severe for Sonnberger if she is not a Canadian citizen. According to the “Migrants Know Your Rights Guide,” published by various advocacy groups, migrants convicted of crimes punishable by more than six months in prison could face deportation. This applies to both temporary and permanent residents, with specific consequences depending on their immigration status and the nature of the crime.
The guide states, “If you are convicted of a crime, you could lose your immigration status. Whether you lose your status depends on ‘how serious’ the crime is, the specific crime committed, and the type of status you possess.” For permanent residents, a prison sentence exceeding six months for certain crimes could result in the loss of their status. For those without permanent status, even minor offenses can lead to deportation if they are deemed indictable.
Toronto Police have indicated that hate will be considered an aggravating factor in sentencing if Sonnberger is convicted. The statement also mentioned that charges related to hate speech, such as promoting hatred or advocating genocide, require the Attorney General’s consent and are often subject to procedural delays.
The police added, “When suspected hate-motivated offences are reported to the police, the investigation could be led by a Divisional Investigator with the support of the Hate Crime Unit, or in some cases, will be investigated exclusively by the HCU.”
