Nigeria Worried After Violent Anti-Migrant Protest in South Africa

Nigeria has urged its citizens in South Africa to exercise caution after an anti-illegal immigration protest in Eastern Cape turned violent, underscoring persistent tensions around migration and local authority.

The unrest occurred on March 30 in the port city of KuGompo, where a protest initially described as peaceful escalated after claims that a demonstrator had been attacked by a foreign national. Violence followed, with at least 10 vehicles set alight and shops looted.

The Nigerian High Commission advised citizens to limit movement and avoid public gatherings as tensions remain high. No arrests have been reported.

The violence came amid controversy over the recent installation of Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as “Eze Ndi Igbo East London,” a ceremonial title within the Nigerian Igbo diaspora.

Some local South African leaders viewed the move as an assertion of authority. Traditional leader Xhanti Sigcawu said the development had left local chiefs feeling “undermined,” describing the area as the “territory of the Xhosas.”

Authorities condemned the unrest. KuGompo mayor Princess Faku said: “We supported the march because it is part of the efforts of defending our sovereignty but cannot condone violence.”

She added: “Violence doesn’t solve problems… it’s very sad that such an important march was turned into violence and chaos.”

Police Commissioner Fani Masemola told press the government will apprehend all repsonsible for the chaos to face justice.

South Africa hosts approximately 2.4 million migrants, representing just under 4% of its population. While most migrants come from neighboring countries, Nigerians form a smaller but visible community.

Xenophobia has long been a recurring issue, with periodic outbreaks of violence tied to economic pressures and political narratives around immigration.

Community leaders stressed that Eziko’s title is symbolic and carries no political authority. Dr ABC Okokoh said: “We are not here to establish a kingdom [or] a king because there are laws in this country that must be respected.”

He described the ceremony as a private event and apologized for the fallout. Provincial authorities also distanced themselves, calling for adherence to national laws governing traditional leadership.