Violence has erupted in KuGompo City, Eastern Cape, as protesters clashed with police over the reported coronation of a Nigerian national as king. The situation is dire, with several vehicles torched and businesses owned by foreign nationals ransacked. The protest, which started peacefully, turned violent when a man was allegedly stabbed by a foreign national.
Protest Against Unlawful Coronation
The protest was joined by several groups, including ActionSA, the Patriotic Alliance, and civic movement March and March, who condemned the ceremony as unlawful. Police spokeswoman Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that police had responded to the scene and were using teargas to disperse the crowd. According to Gantana, 12 vehicles have been damaged, and several buildings have been torched.
The reported coronation of Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as ‘Igwe Ndigbo’ has sparked outrage, with many questioning the legitimacy of the ceremony. The Royal House of AbaThembu has denied reports that King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo welcomed and granted royalty to the Nigerian national. As stated on the South African Government website, the country’s laws and customs must be respected by all individuals, including foreign nationals.
Condemnation from Leaders
ActionSA Eastern Cape leader Athol Trollip said there was no constitutional provision for any foreigner, legal or illegal, to coronate themselves in the Eastern Cape. The Patriotic Alliance also condemned the ceremony, with spokesperson Steve Motale saying, ‘We are happy that even the Nigeria High Commissioner in SA has also condemned it.’ A list of the groups involved in the protest includes:
- ActionSA
- The Patriotic Alliance
- Civic movement March and March
The situation in KuGompo City remains volatile, with emergency services and the Public Order Policing Unit on the scene. As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the reported coronation of a Nigerian king has sparked tensions in the community.
