Eastern Cape Rejects Nigerian King Coronation in East London | South Africa News
The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has rejected what it terms the alleged inauguration of a Nigerian king within the province. The incident, reportedly involving the coronation of Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko by members of the Nigerian Igbo community in KuGompo City, formerly East London, has sparked widespread condemnation from South African traditional leaders and government officials.
Dr. Jongi Klaas, a cultural expert and senior researcher at COGTA Eastern Cape, emphasized the impropriety of the event, stating that a coronation conducted without the express permission of the local community is both an anomaly and a sign of disrespect. “If you have a house, someone else stands up in the morning in front of your house to say I’m the head of this household. What would be your reaction?” Klaas asked, highlighting the perceived affront to established authority.
The controversy centers on Chief Eziko’s reported installation as “Igwe Ndigbo Na East London,” a title translating to the Igbo king of East London. Videos circulating on social media appear to document celebrations surrounding the event, prompting a swift response from provincial authorities. Eastern Cape Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Zolile Williams denounced the installation as an attempt to undermine South Africa’s sovereignty and land ownership, calling for immediate intervention from both the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and law enforcement agencies.
Nkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso, Chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (ECHTKL), echoed Williams’ condemnation, describing the alleged coronation as a “flagrant violation” of customary protocols and a “direct affront” to the institution of traditional leadership. Gwadiso affirmed that the area in question falls under the authority of the amaRharhabe kingdom, led by King Sandile.
The AmaRharhabe Kingdom itself has formally distanced itself from the reported event, asserting that any claim of authority by a Nigerian individual within its jurisdiction is unrecognized. Nkosi Siseko Maqoma and Prince Banzi Tyali, speaking on behalf of King Jonguxolo Sandile, stated that a Nigerian individual claiming to be a king has “no authority or recognition” within the kingdom.
COGTA has initiated diplomatic engagement with the Nigerian High Commission, seeking to address the matter through official channels. Dr. Klaas clarified that the issue is not necessarily directed at Nigeria as a nation, but rather focuses on balancing the welcoming of foreign nationals with the protection of the rights and interests of local communities. The department is seeking clarification on the circumstances surrounding the event and its implications for traditional leadership structures in the Eastern Cape.
Even as condemnation has been widespread, leaders have also cautioned against reactions that could exacerbate xenophobic tensions. The Daily Dispatch reported that authorities have not officially confirmed the coronation, despite the circulation of images and videos online. The situation remains fluid as authorities await further information and prepare for potential diplomatic discussions.