Protesters have burned vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals in protest against the installation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
According to Monday’s report from an online media outlet, Newzroom Africa, “There is escalating violence in KuGompo City, Eastern Cape, where protesters torched foreign-owned vehicles and buildings in response to the controversial coronation of an Igbo traditional leader as local king, organised by the Nigerian community.”
The unrest was reportedly triggered by the controversial installation of Nigerian Igbo leader Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as “Igwe Ndigbo” on March 24, 2026, which Eastern Cape authorities deemed disrespectful to local traditions and sovereignty.
Eziko is a Nigerian national from the Igbo ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria.
He gained public attention in March 2026 after being installed by members of the local Nigerian/Igbo diaspora community in KuGompo (East London area), Eastern Cape province, South Africa, as “Igwe Ndigbo Na East London” (roughly translating to “Igbo King/Leader in East London”).
He has been active in the Nigerian community in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Reports describe him as involved in philanthropic activities, supporting the less privileged, and promoting peace and unity among Nigerians in the area.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa has clarified that the title of ‘Igwe Ndigbo’ conferred on Eziko was not to undermine the traditional institutions.
NICASA also stated that the installation was not intended to disrespect the governance structure or undermine the sovereignty and constitutional order of the Republic of South Africa.
The president of NICASA, Frank Onyekwelu, made this known in a statement made available to Diaspora Tales on Friday.
Onyekwelu said the institution of Igwe Ndigbo is a cultural and traditional expression of the Igbo people in the diaspora, adding that, “Its purpose is strictly to promote unity, preserve cultural identity, and provide social cohesion within the community.
“It does not possess, nor does it seek to exercise, any political or governmental authority within South Africa.
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“We can confirm that there was neither a coronation nor any kingdom established; however, a title installation was observed for the single purpose of fostering peace and unity within the cultural heritage of the Igbo people and preserving Igbo culture in diaspora.”