Violence in South Africa over Igbo traditional ruler’s coronation
Violence has erupted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape against the installation of Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as Eze Igbo. Vehicles and buildings linked to foreign nationals were set ablaze. The
Violence has erupted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape against the installation of Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as Eze Igbo.
Vehicles and buildings linked to foreign nationals were set ablaze.
The unrest occurred in East London, where demonstrators opposed to the coronation, argued that it undermines local traditional authority and sovereignty.
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The protests, led by members of ActionSA alongside traditional leaders and local residents yesterday, were initially staged in opposition to what organisers described as a violation of the province’s sovereignty, constitutional order and recognised traditional leadership structures.
However, tensions escalated rapidly in KuGompo City, where the demonstrations turned violent, forcing police to intervene and disperse crowds, according to SABC News.
Video evidence on X indicated that protesters set several vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals on fire while security forces intensified efforts to restore order.
“Protesters have torched vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals in protest against the installation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape,” Newsroom Afrika reported.
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Similarly, CDR Africa said the unrest reflected growing outrage over the coronation, with foreign-owned properties becoming primary targets.
The situation further deteriorated, with eNCA reporting that violence turned deadly after a stabbing incident allegedly involving Ethiopian shop owners.
About two people were taken to the hospital for treatment, while several vehicles were destroyed in the chaos.
Police moved in to restore order, reportedly using crowd-control measures, including stun grenades, as tensions remain high.
The incident has reignited concerns over xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals have previously been targeted during periods of unrest.
