EFF condemned illegal Nigerian kingship coronation amid violent protests in Eastern Cape
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have issued a stern statement reaffirming the sole authority of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in recognising traditional leadership, following a controversial and “illegal” coronation of a Nigerian national in the Eastern Cape.
The outcry stems from the alleged self-proclaimed coronation of an individual as the “King of the Igbo Nation” in KuGompo (formerly East London). This event has sparked significant unrest and violent protests in the region, leading to the destruction of property and injuries to civilians.
The legal framework of royalty
In their statement dated March 30,2026, the EFF emphasised that kingship in South Africa is not merely ceremonial but is a legal status governed by strict legislative frameworks. Under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, the process for recognition requires the Minister of COGTA to make a formal recommendation. Subsequently, the President of South Africa must officially recognise the King or Queen, a process that is only officialised once published in the Government Gazette.
The EFF labeled the self-proclamation by a foreign national as not only offensive and insulting but fundamentally illegal, as it bypasses the sovereignty of the South African state and the legislative processes that bestow authority over people and land.
Accountability and media responsibility
The party also took aim at the media, urging journalists to perform due diligence. The EFF argued that reporting on “coronations” without clarifying whether legal requirements have been met can mislead the public and inflame tensions. They noted that kingship is not to be taken lightly, nor should it be declared by individuals without any legal authority.
A call for peace and prosecution
While condemning the coronation, the EFF also strongly rebuked the violent response that has gripped KuGompo. The party condemned political actors who have used the situation to incite violence or destroy infrastructure to score cheap political points.
To address the fallout, the EFF has instructed its structures in the Buffalo City Metropolitan to monitor the situation closely and provide assistance to all South Africans whose infrastructure has been damaged.
Furthermore, the party is calling for the immediate arrest of those who instigated the violence and for them to be held liable for damages. Finally, they have encouraged the government to communicate recognition criteria more clearly to maintain public confidence and prevent future confusion.