Nigeria’s High Commission has urged its nationals in South Africa to exercise caution and suspend socio-cultural activities following tensions linked to a disputed cultural event in the Eastern Cape.
The High Commission said Nigerians should “be conscious and mindful of personal and individual safety, maintain a low profile at all times,” and “suspend any form of socio-cultural activities forthwith” amid what it described as “palpable tension in the country.”
The warning follows public backlash and protests in KuGompo City (East London), over reports of the alleged coronation of an “Igwe King” by members of the Nigerian community.
Protests in the area turned volatile on Monday, with residents and other stakeholders taking to the streets after images and videos of the alleged ceremony circulated online, fuelling outrage and claims that the move was unlawful and disrespectful to local traditional structures.
One of the protesters was allegedly stabbed by a foreign national, leading to vehicles being burned and shops being looted.
The Nigerian mission has disputed that any coronation took place.
“Contrary to the narrative in the public domain, no coronation took place and none intended.”
It emphasised that Nigeria “holds the sovereignty, laws, customs, and traditions of the Republic of South Africa and its people in the highest regard,” distancing itself from any suggestion of political or territorial intent.
Providing context, the High Commission said such events, as seen in KuGompo City, must be understood within Nigerian cultural practices, noting that “title-taking ceremonies, such as the conferment of chieftaincy titles, are also central to Igbo cultural life.”
“These recognise personal achievements, integrity, and service to the community,” the statement said, adding that the event in question “has no territorial ambition, political authority, or agenda within the host communities,” but is “a symbolic affirmation of identity.”
The mission further called on its nationals to “remain law-abiding and pay respect to local laws and customs,” and to “refrain from indulging in unnecessary ostentation and flamboyance” during this period.
Despite this, the matter has drawn sharp political reaction in South Africa, with calls for legal action and enforcement.
African Transformation Movement (ATM) leader Vuyo Zungula has written to the Minister of Home Affairs demanding an urgent investigation into the immigration status of those involved.
Zungula cited the Immigration Act, warning that individuals without proper documentation or those who may have violated visa conditions could face consequences under “Section 49, which deals with offences relating to illegal foreigners.”
He called on authorities to “initiate an urgent and comprehensive investigation,” and to “arrest, prosecute and deport all individuals involved in the unlawful coronation.”
“The matter strikes at the very heart of South Africa’s sovereignty, constitutional supremacy, and the rule of law,” Zungula said, adding that the incident “cannot be dismissed as a mere cultural exercise.”
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has also weighed in, reaffirming that only the state can recognise traditional leadership structures.
The party said “the Minister for COGTA (Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs) must make recommendations to the President” in terms of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, stressing that “it is therefore not only offensive, but also illegal for any individual to declare themselves a monarch outside of these legislative processes.”
While condemning the alleged coronation, the EFF also called for calm, denouncing violence linked to the unrest.
“We further condemn all political parties and actors who have been involved in the destruction of properties in KuGompo, and those who have harmed civilians in an effort to score cheap political points,” the party said.
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Siphesihle Buthelezi
iol.co.za