Violent protests erupted in KuGompo City, Eastern Cape, on Monday as demonstrators clashed with police over the reported coronation of a Nigerian national as king. The protests, which drew in several groups including ActionSA and the Patriotic Alliance, condemned the ceremony as unlawful.
The chaos began as a planned peaceful demonstration by various traditional leaders, but descended into violence when some participants moved away from the city hall, where a petition was being handed over. Twelve vehicles were damaged, and several buildings were torched, according to police spokeswoman Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana.
Protest Against Nigerian King
The protest was sparked by videos and images of Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko being crowned ‘Igwe Ndigbo’ in the city. Several traditional leaders and groups joined the demonstration, including March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, who said one of her members was stabbed in the back and taken to hospital.
ActionSA Eastern Cape leader Athol Trollip previously stated that there was no constitutional provision for any foreigner to coronate themselves in the Eastern Cape. The Royal House of AbaThembu also denied reports that King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo welcomed and granted royalty to the Nigerian national, with royal ambassador and senior royal advisor Adv Matthew Mpahlwa saying the claims come from “sick and depraved minds”.
Condemnation from Authorities
The Nigeria High Commissioner in South Africa also condemned the coronation, according to PA spokesperson Steve Motale. The incident has highlighted tensions between local communities and foreign nationals in the Eastern Cape.
For more information on the constitutional provisions for traditional leadership in South Africa, visit the official government website. The incident has sparked a wider debate about the role of traditional leaders in South African society.
- 12 vehicles damaged
- Several buildings torched
- One person stabbed and taken to hospital
