The Nigerian House of Representatives has formally requested the Canadian government to investigate and prosecute Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Nigerian resident in Canada, who made violent threats against Yoruba and Benin communities. The lawmakers expressed alarm over a viral TikTok video in which Sunnberger threatened to poison members of these communities, raising public safety concerns.
Sunnberger, claiming to reside in Ontario, Canada, was recorded making inflammatory statements during a virtual meeting, vowing to harm Yoruba and Benin people at her workplace. She claimed her threats were in retaliation for perceived hate against the Igbo community. Sunnberger dismissed the possibility of facing legal consequences, citing her Canadian citizenship and asserting that Canada’s legal system would protect her from arrest.
In a formal petition addressed to the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, James Christoff, Nigerian lawmakers urged Canadian authorities to take immediate action. The petition, signed by Biodun Omoleye, Chairman of the Nigeria-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Group, and Tochukwu Okere, Chairman of the Committee on Diaspora Matters, described Sunnberger’s statements as hate speech and incitement to violence. They called for a thorough investigation and prosecution under Canadian laws, including those against promoting genocide and hate speech, to hold Sunnberger accountable for her actions.
The lawmakers also requested the Canadian government publicly condemn Sunnberger’s remarks to reaffirm its commitment to combating hate speech and violence. They urged Canadian authorities to collaborate with their Nigerian counterparts to prevent potential violence and ensure justice is served.
The petition highlighted that Sunnberger’s threats violate several international and Canadian laws, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. The lawmakers emphasized that her actions breach sections of the Canadian Criminal Code, which criminalizes the promotion of genocide and public incitement to hatred.
Sunnberger’s threats have sparked widespread condemnation from Nigerian authorities and diaspora groups. Abike Dabiri, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, confirmed that the incident has been reported to Canadian authorities. The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, an Igbo cultural organization, distanced itself from Sunnberger’s remarks, stating that her statements do not reflect Igbo values of peace and respect for others.
The Nigerian House of Representatives is determined to ensure that such dangerous rhetoric is met with legal consequences to protect the lives and safety of Nigerians both at home and abroad. They hope the Canadian government will act swiftly to hold Sunnberger accountable and prevent any escalation of violence resulting from her threats.
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