Traffic in KuGompo City came to a halt on Monday as protests escalated over the reported coronation of a Nigerian traditional leader, sparking tensions in the city’s central business district.
The unrest follows viral images and videos showing Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko being crowned as “Igwe Ndigbo of KuGompo City,” an event that has since drawn sharp criticism from provincial authorities and cultural experts, who say the ceremony violates established customary protocols.
The protest was led by anti-illegal migration group March and March, alongside other participating organisations, who marched from Windmill to KuGompo City Hall to present their grievances.
Authorities say the demonstration escalated into violence, with protesters some reportedly travelling from KwaZulu-Natal forcing the closure of businesses in the CBD and setting vehicles alight. Police responded with rubber bullets in an effort to disperse the crowd and restore order.
One protester described the alleged coronation as a serious provocation.
“This is a sign of disrespect. We cannot have someone undermining customary laws put in place by Eastern Cape traditional leaders,” the protester said. “It is undermining the struggle of those who died for this land.”
Another participant said the march was also intended to send a broader message regarding illegal migration, stating that unlawful foreign nationals would not be tolerated.
The situation in KuGompo City remains tense as law enforcement continues to monitor the area and assess the extent of the damage.