Violence has broken out in South Africa’s Eastern Cape as locals protested the appointment of a Nigerian national as a ‘Nigerian King’ who was named the ‘Igwe Ndigbo Na East London.’ Protesters have set fire to vehicles and buildings that are reportedly owned by foreign nationals in objection to the appointment of the ‘Nigerian King’…
The Aba Thembu Royal Council has condemned the crowning of a ‘Nigerian king’ in the Eastern Cape, calling it an act of terror. They have announced intentions to communicate with the Nigerian Consulate in South Africa regarding this issue.
Reports from SABC News indicate that the Royal House of AbaThembu has refuted claims that King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo endorsed and granted royal status to the Nigerian appointee.
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has also criticized the appointment of a Nigerian king in South Africa.
Efforts have been made to appeal for peace as demonstrators caused destruction to vehicles and other assets, demanding the immediate expulsion of the self-proclaimed Nigerian Igbo king in the Eastern Cape.
Newzroom Afrika, a South African news outlet, reported that a man whose car was damaged during the protest against the alleged coronation expressed his financial struggles and lack of insurance coverage for the damages.
IOL News stated that Police spokeswoman, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, verified the protest and had dispatched officers to the site.
‘The protest started as a scheduled peaceful march by different traditional leaders against the supposed crowning of an Igbo king. Violence erupted when some participants strayed from the city hall, where a petition was being submitted,’ shared Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana.
‘Twelve vehicles have been vandalised, and multiple structures have been set on fire. Emergency services, including the fire department, are present at the location, together with the Public Order Policing Unit,’ she added.
