ActionSA Leads Protests Against Igbo Traditional Ruler’s Coronation as Chaos Engulfs KuGompo City

Violence broke out in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province on Monday as protests against the coronation of an Igbo traditional ruler turned chaotic, with demonstrators setting vehicles ablaze and looting shops owned by foreign nationals.

The protests, led by members of the ActionSA political party alongside local traditional leaders and residents, began as a peaceful demonstration against what organisers called a violation of the province’s sovereignty and recognised traditional leadership structures.

Tensions quickly escalated in KuGompo City, forcing police to intervene. According to SABC News, security forces moved to disperse crowds as the situation grew increasingly volatile.

Video footage posted on X showed protesters setting fire to several vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals. “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.

The unrest turned deadly after a stabbing incident reportedly involving Ethiopian shop owners, according to eNCA. At least two people were taken to hospital for treatment, and several vehicles were destroyed.

ActionSA’s Eastern Cape chair, Athol Trollip, reaffirmed 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 stood with recognised traditional authorities and insisted that due process must be followed.

Some protesters issued stark warnings, vowing to escalate resistance if authorities fail to address their concerns. One demonstrator reportedly said residents were prepared to “take up arms” if the matter remained unresolved, while others called for the deportation of Nigerians linked to the coronation.

Protesters had earlier marched through parts of the province demanding immediate government intervention, warning that inaction could trigger further unrest.