Violence broke out in KuGompo City, Eastern Cape, on Monday as a protest against the alleged coronation of a Nigerian national as a traditional ruler turned chaotic.
The demonstration, which began peacefully, escalated after reports that a man was stabbed during the unrest. Eyewitnesses said vehicles were set ablaze and buildings vandalised, prompting emergency services to respond.
Police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that security operatives were deployed to the scene, with officers using teargas to disperse protesters.
“The protest began as a planned peaceful demonstration by various traditional leaders over the alleged coronation of an Igbo king,” she said, adding that violence erupted when some participants moved away from the city hall, where a petition was being submitted.
According to police, at least 12 vehicles were damaged, while several buildings were set on fire. Firefighters and members of the Public Order Policing Unit remain on the ground to contain the situation.
Authorities also confirmed that a man was stabbed during the incident and taken to hospital, although police said he was not part of the protest.
The unrest followed viral videos showing Solomon Ogbonna Eziko being crowned “Igwe Ndigbo” in the city, formerly known as East London, sparking outrage among local groups and traditional leaders.
Political parties and civic organisations, including ActionSA and the Patriotic Alliance, joined the protest, condemning the alleged coronation as unlawful. ActionSA Eastern Cape leader Athol Trollip said there was no constitutional basis for a foreign national to assume kingship in the province.
The Patriotic Alliance also rejected the move, while the Royal House of AbaThembu distanced itself from claims that its monarch, Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, endorsed the coronation.
Authorities say the situation remains tense, with further updates expected as security agencies continue to monitor developments.
