Violence erupted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape as residents protested the installation of a Nigerian national as a so-called “Nigerian King,” crowned the Igwe Ndigbo Na East London.
Protesters set fire to vehicles and buildings, many allegedly owned by foreign nationals, expressing outrage at the coronation. A video of the ceremony went viral earlier this month, drawing widespread condemnation.
The Aba Thembu Royal Council denounced the coronation as an “act of terror” and announced plans to formally raise the issue with the Nigeria Consulate in South Africa.
The Royal House of Aba Thembu clarified that King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo had not welcomed or granted any royal status to the Nigerian national.
South Africa’s Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, also condemned the coronation.
Authorities have urged calm as demonstrators damaged property while demanding the immediate deportation of the self-appointed Igbo king.
According to Newzroom Afrika, a local man whose car was destroyed by protesters said he is struggling with the loss, having no insurance to cover the damages.
Police confirmed the unrest. Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana told IOL News that the protest began as a planned, peaceful demonstration by various traditional leaders concerned about the alleged coronation. Violence erupted when some participants moved away from East London City Hall, where a petition was being handed over.
“Twelve vehicles have been damaged, and several buildings have been torched. Emergency services, including the fire department and Public Order Policing Unit, remain on the scene,” she said.
The incident underscores rising tensions in the region over traditional leadership disputes and the role of foreign nationals in local ceremonies, drawing national attention to questions of legitimacy, authority, and social cohesion.
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