Violence erupted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province on Monday following widespread protests against the controversial coronation of an Igbo traditional ruler, with unrest escalating into attacks on property and businesses linked to foreign nationals.
The demonstrations, spearheaded by members of ActionSA alongside traditional leaders and local residents, were initially organised to oppose what they described as a breach of constitutional provisions and recognised traditional leadership systems in the province.
However, the situation quickly deteriorated in KuGompo City as protesters turned violent, torching vehicles and looting shops. Security forces were deployed to restore order, dispersing crowds as tensions intensified.
Footage circulating online showed burning vehicles and buildings reportedly owned by foreigners, highlighting the scale of the unrest. Media reports indicated that foreign-owned properties became primary targets as anger over the coronation deepened.
The crisis took a more serious turn after a reported stabbing incident allegedly involving Ethiopian shop owners, leaving at least two individuals hospitalised while several vehicles were destroyed.
Reacting to the development, ActionSA’s Eastern Cape chair, Athol Trollip, strongly condemned the coronation, describing it as unlawful and inconsistent with South Africa’s traditional governance framework. He maintained that the country’s constitution does not recognise the installation of a foreign king within its borders.
Trollip further stressed the party’s stance on immigration, warning that individuals residing illegally in the country and committing offences would face deportation. He also expressed concern over statements allegedly made during the coronation, which he said suggested the establishment of a separate kingship.
Reaffirming support for existing traditional authorities, he insisted that due legal processes must be respected in matters relating to cultural leadership. He also cautioned against any attempt to create structures reminiscent of apartheid-era homelands, noting the painful history associated with such systems in the region.
Some protesters issued strong warnings, threatening to intensify their actions if authorities fail to address their grievances. One of the demonstrators, Inoksi Sigcawu, emphasised that the province’s sovereignty must be protected and called for the immediate removal of those involved in what he described as an illegal coronation.
He also urged authorities to investigate foreign-owned businesses to ensure compliance with legal requirements, warning that failure to act could lead to further unrest.
Earlier, protesters had marched across parts of the province demanding swift government intervention, cautioning that inaction could trigger a deeper crisis.
Meanwhile, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) stated that it had not received any official report confirming attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, dismissing circulating social media claims as unverified.
NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun said the commission would rely on formal diplomatic channels before taking any action, noting that no victims or authorities had filed an official report.
In response to the rising tension, the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria issued a public advisory urging Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain vigilant. Citizens were advised to avoid large gatherings, limit unnecessary travel, and exercise caution, particularly on social media.
The commission emphasised that the advisory was a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring safety, encouraging Nigerians to remain law-abiding while the situation continues to unfold.
Violent Protests Rock South Africa’s Eastern Cape Over Disputed Igbo Kingship
