Tensions are rising in South Africa’s Eastern Cape after a controversial coronation of an Igbo traditional leader reportedly took place in East London.

Protests broke out, led by members of ActionSA along with traditional leaders and residents. Demonstrators are demanding that Nigerians linked to the event be deported and warning that unrest could follow if the government does not act.

Protesters say the coronation disrespects South Africa’s laws and traditional leadership system. One protester told SABC News that the country’s constitution does not allow a foreign national to be crowned as a traditional ruler in the Eastern Cape.

Another protester said the king is not for South Africans, but to oversee the Igbo Nigerians in South Africa affairs, but our people don’t want them.

They also raised concerns about statements allegedly made during the event, claiming organisers spoke about creating a separate “kingship” or homeland in the province. Protesters compared this idea to apartheid-era homelands, which left lasting economic and social damage.

ActionSA members repeated their stance on illegal immigration, saying anyone in the country unlawfully should be removed. They also rejected claims that the coronation was only symbolic.

Traditional leaders have backed the protests. Prince Xhanti Sigcawu from the Amathole House of Traditional Leaders described the incident as a violation of South Africa’s sovereignty and called for those involved to be expelled, regardless of their immigration status.

He also urged authorities to investigate foreign-owned businesses, including spaza shops, to confirm that operators are properly documented.

Sigcawu warned that failure to act could lead to community members taking matters into their own hands.

Some protesters accused foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, of undermining local authority and contributing to instability, though these claims were not independently verified.

The situation has reignited broader debates in South Africa around immigration, economic pressure, and the role of foreign nationals in local communities.

As of now, the South African government has not released an official statement, and Nigerian authorities have also not publicly responded.