KuGompo City – Solomon Ogbonna Eziko, widely referred to as the “Igbo king,” has apologised to the AmaRharhabe kingdom and South Africans following controversy over his reported coronation, which sparked public backlash and tensions in KuGompo City in the Eastern Cape.
Eziko clarified that he was never a king and said the event had been misinterpreted, stressing:
“I would like to sincerely apologise to Kumkani Jonguxolo Sandile (Aaaaaa Vul’ulwandle!) of the AmaRharhabe Xhosa Kingdom, the traditional leaders of South Africa, the people of KuGompo and all South Africans.
“I am sorry for the confusion and concern caused by the event that took place on 14 March 2026 in East London. I want to make it clear that I was not crowned as a king. I am not a king. I do not claim to be a king.”
BREAKING NEWS: Nigerian King of East London Apologise To South Africans.
Solomon Obona Ezekiel Nigerian man who made himself king of East London has apologised, stating that he is not a king and he did not claim to be a king, however, he introduced himself as a “Chief” meanwhile… pic.twitter.com/lkZTtvIUVK
— PSAFLIVE (@PSAFLIVE) April 11, 2026
He firmly distanced himself from any royal claims and explained that what took place was a cultural appointment, not a coronation:
“What took place on that day was only my appointment as a senior elder of the Ibgo community in the Eastern Cape. It does not give me any authority as a king or traditional leader. I respect his majesty Kumkani Jonguxolo Sandile… and I recognise his authority. I also respect all traditional leaders and the law of South Africa.”
Eziko added that he remains respectful of South African traditional leadership and denied any intention to mislead or undermine local institutions.
“It was never my intention to disrespect the people, the leadership or the country of South Africa. I take full responsibility for the misunderstanding and I am truly sorry.
“I support all effort to restore peace, understanding and unity. I humbly ask for forgiveness from everyone affected.”
Meanwhile, a report by Daily Dispatch indicates that Nigeria is exploring plans to repatriate its citizens from South Africa, as tensions in KuGompo City continue to simmer and show little sign of easing.
The report said that Nigerian officials are reportedly identifying citizens willing to return home, with plans for a possible special evacuation flight already in motion.
Picture: Screengrab
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
