Canada-Based Nigerian Charged in Alleged Hate-Related Harassment Case

Canadian authorities have charged a Nigerian national residing in Toronto, Kayode Roberts, in connection with an alleged series of harassment and assault incidents described as hate-motivated.

According to police, the investigation covers multiple encounters said to have taken place between July and December 2025. During that period, Roberts is accused of repeatedly confronting a neighbour, engaging in physical assault, issuing threats, and harassing the individual. Investigators also allege that the accused kicked the neighbour’s dog during one of the incidents.

Law enforcement officials further claim that the confrontations included remarks deemed hostile toward the 2SLGBTQI+ community, prompting the case to be reviewed as a suspected hate-motivated offence.

Roberts, a 40-year-old Toronto resident, was arrested on February 4, 2026, following the conclusion of police inquiries. He has been charged with assault, criminal harassment, uttering threats, and causing unnecessary pain or injury to an animal.

Police noted that cases believed to be driven by bias or prejudice are assessed in consultation with Crown prosecutors, and if proven in court, such motivation may be treated as an aggravating factor during sentencing. Authorities added that offences related to hate propaganda require approval from the Attorney General and could be pursued separately if deemed necessary.

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The accused is expected to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto on March 19, 2026. Police stressed that all charges remain allegations, and Roberts is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The case comes amid increased attention on criminal prosecutions involving foreign nationals in Canada, particularly within the Greater Toronto Area.