Crowning of ‘Nigerian king’ in Eastern Cape sparks concern from ATM

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has called for a government investigation into the reported coronation of a Nigerian “king” in the Eastern Cape, citing concerns it could undermine South Africa’s legal framework and traditional leadership structures.

ATM Calls for Investigation into Nigerian “King” Coronation

The ATM issued a statement expressing “strong rejection and deep concern” regarding the reported coronation of an individual titled “Igwe Ndigbo Na East London,” following the circulation of videos on social media appearing to show celebrations.

The party is urging immediate intervention from multiple levels of government, specifically calling on Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa to protect the integrity of South Africa’s traditional leadership institutions and prevent the emergence of illegitimate structures.

A provincial investigation into the matter was also requested from Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane.

While South Africa remains a welcoming and diverse society that respects the cultural expressions of all who reside within its borders, this tolerance must never be exploited to undermine our laws, customs or national identity

—  African Transformation Movement

The ATM also requested that Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber investigate the immigration status of those involved and determine if any laws were violated. The party further urged bodies responsible for cultural oversight, such as the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) and the Eastern Cape department of traditional affairs, to intervene.

The ATM acknowledged South Africa’s commitment to cultural diversity but cautioned against actions that could undermine the country’s laws and identity, stating that tolerance should not be exploited to the detriment of the nation’s legal and cultural foundations.

Traditional leadership is deeply rooted in the history, identity and ancestral lineage of South African communities. It cannot be replicated, substituted or superimposed by external actors

—  ATM

The party emphasized that traditional leadership is governed by established legal and cultural processes and cannot be arbitrarily replicated. It argued that the installation of any king or chief is not merely a ceremonial act and cannot be imported from foreign traditions. Attempts to establish parallel authority structures are considered unlawful and unacceptable.

The ATM views the incident as a dangerous precedent that undermines the authority of legitimate traditional leaders and the rule of law, asserting that the notion of a foreign national or group establishing a “kingdom” within South Africa is both unlawful and unacceptable.