The House of Representatives in Nigeria has formally asked the Canadian government to investigate and prosecute Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Nigerian living in Canada, for making threatening remarks against Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin descent. Sunnberger allegedly made these comments during a TikTok virtual meeting, where she expressed intentions to harm Yoruba and Benin individuals by bringing poisonous substances to her workplace in Ontario, Canada. She claimed this was in response to perceived hostility towards the Igbo community.
In a letter signed by Nigerian lawmakers Biodun Omoleye and Tochukwu Chinedu Okere, the House expressed deep concern over Sunnberger’s statements, describing them as a direct threat to the safety of millions of Nigerians. The letter emphasized that her comments violated international, Canadian, and Ontario laws, including incitement to violence and genocide.
The House of Representatives requested the following actions from the Canadian government:
1. Investigation: A thorough and immediate investigation into Sunnberger’s actions by Canadian law enforcement and relevant authorities.
2. Prosecution: Prosecution under relevant Canadian laws, including those against incitement to genocide and hate speech.
3. Public Denouncement: A public condemnation of Sunnberger’s actions by the Canadian government to reaffirm its commitment to combating hate speech, violence, and genocide.
4. Collaboration with Nigerian Authorities: Cooperation between Canadian and Nigerian authorities to prevent potential violence and ensure justice is served.
The Nigerian lawmakers stressed the severity of the situation and urged the Canadian government to take swift action to address the threat posed by Sunnberger’s remarks.
By Ebubedike Ochu
