Canada-based Nigerian faces trial over alleged hate-motivated harassment

A Canada-based Nigerian, Kayode Roberts, has been charged by the Toronto Police Service following an investigation into what authorities described as a suspected hate-motivated criminal harassment case.

PUNCH Metro gathered from a statement published on the Toronto Police website on Sunday that the charges stem from a series of incidents alleged to have occurred between July 1 and December 29, 2025.

Police alleged that Roberts assaulted and harassed a neighbour during the period, issued threats of harm, and kicked the victim’s dog.

Investigators also claimed that he made anti-2SLGBTQI+ remarks directed at the victim during the confrontations.

The statement read, “During three incidents occurring between July 1 and December 29, 2025, the accused is alleged to have assaulted, threatened to harm, and harassed the victim, as well as kicked the victim’s dog.

“During these incidents, the accused is also alleged to have made anti-2SLGBTQI+ comments directed at the victim.”

According to the police, the 40-year-old Toronto resident was located and arrested on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

He has been charged with assault, wilfully causing unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal, uttering threats, and criminal harassment.

Authorities explained that under Canadian law, when a criminal offence such as assault or mischief is believed to be motivated by bias, prejudice, or hate, investigators may consult the Crown prosecutor.

“This investigation is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence by the Hate Crime Unit,” the statement added.

“If a person is charged and convicted of the offence, the judge may consider hate as an aggravating factor when imposing a sentence.”

Police further clarified that charges relating to hate propaganda — including the wilful promotion of hatred or advocating genocide — require the consent of the Attorney General and could be considered at a later stage.

Roberts is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at 10 Armoury Street, Toronto, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 2 p.m., in Courtroom 202.

The police emphasised that all charges remain allegations and that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

His arrest adds to a growing list of Canada-based Nigerians facing prosecution for various offences.

PUNCH Metro had earlier reported that another Nigerian, 38-year-old Oghenemaro Ejerua, was arrested by Toronto police for allegedly assaulting vulnerable adults while working as a caregiver in the Sibley Avenue and Dentonia Park Avenue areas. He was apprehended after being declared wanted in December 2025.(Punch)