Violence erupted in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, following protests against the controversial coronation of Igbo traditional ruler Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko. Demonstrators reportedly torched vehicles and looted shops owned by foreign nationals.
The protests, organized on Monday by members of ActionSA alongside traditional leaders and local residents, were initially staged in opposition to what the organizers described as a violation of the province’s sovereignty, constitutional order, and recognised traditional leadership structures.
Tensions quickly escalated in KuGompo City, where demonstrations turned violent, prompting police intervention to disperse the crowds, according to SABC News.
Video evidence on X showed protesters setting 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.
Similarly, CDR Africa noted that the unrest reflected growing outrage over the coronation, with foreign-owned properties becoming primary targets.
The situation worsened after a stabbing incident allegedly involving Ethiopian shop owners, with eNCA reporting that violence turned deadly. At least two people were hospitalized, and several vehicles were destroyed in the chaos.
ActionSA’s Eastern Cape chair, Athol Trollip, reiterated the party’s opposition to the coronation in East London, describing it as unlawful and inconsistent with South Africa’s traditional leadership framework.
He said the party supported recognised traditional authorities and insisted that due process must be followed in matters of cultural and traditional governance.
Some protesters issued stern warnings, vowing to escalate resistance if authorities failed to address their concerns. One demonstrator reportedly said residents were ready to “take up arms” if the matter remained unresolved, while others called for the deportation of Nigerians linked to the coronation.
Earlier, protesters had marched through parts of the province, demanding immediate government intervention and warning that failure to act could lead to further unrest.
