‘I Am Not a King’: Solomon Ogbonna Eziko Issues Public Apology Following South African Backlash
A Nigerian national, Solomon Ogbonna Eziko, has issued a formal and unreserved apology to the AmaRharhabe Xhosa Kingdom and the South African public after reports of his “coronation” as an Igbo king in KuGompo City sparked significant unrest and controversy.
- Solomon Ogbonna Eziko clarified he was never coronated as a king.
- The event on March 14 was an appointment as a senior elder of the Association of Igbo Chapter in Eastern Cape.
- The controversy led to tensions in KuGompo City and concerns over xenophobic violence.
- Eziko explicitly recognizes Kumkani Jonguxolo Sandile as the pre-eminent king of the AmaRharhabe Xhosa Kingdom.
Clarifying the ‘Coronation’ Controversy
The tension began following a cultural gathering on March 14 in KuGompo City. Whereas reports circulated that Eziko had been installed as “Igwe Ndigbo Na East London,” Eziko has since moved to correct the record, stating that he does not seek recognition as a king or chief from the Republic of South Africa or its traditional leadership structures.
“I wish to clear the air that I was never coronated as a king. I am not a king and would not purport to be one,” Eziko stated in a formal apology issued on Friday, April 10, 2026.
According to Eziko, the event was actually his appointment as a senior elder of the Association of Igbo Chapter in Eastern Cape—a role that carries no authority to lead a clan or chiefdom. He emphasized that he remains a subject of Kumkani Jonguxolo Sandile (Aaaaaa Vul’ulwandle!), the king of the AmaRharhabe Xhosa Kingdom.
Impact on Community and Political Response
The reported installation drew sharp criticism from traditional leaders, community members, and political parties. In Buffalo City, Prince Abongile Ngozi of the Xhosa kingdom read a memorandum against the coronation, flanked by Buffalo City Mayor Princess Faku and Deputy Minister Zolile Burns-Ncamashe.
The situation escalated amid broader concerns regarding the influence of Nigerian nationals in the region. The unrest became severe enough that the Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg issued a notice regarding the repatriation of citizens who wish to depart South Africa due to rising fears of xenophobic violence.
Diplomatic and Traditional Friction
The controversy highlights a sensitive intersection of cultural identity and traditional sovereignty. The AmaRharhabe Kingdom argued that the reported coronation undermined South African traditional structures. The Nigerian government has viewed the trend of appointing “Eze Ndigbo” (Igbo Kings) in foreign countries as embarrassing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Solomon Ogbonna Eziko actually crowned a king?
No. Eziko clarified that he was appointed as a senior elder of the Association of Igbo Chapter in Eastern Cape and was never coronated as a king.
Who is the recognized leader of the region?
Eziko acknowledged Kumkani Jonguxolo Sandile as the pre-eminent king of the AmaRharhabe Xhosa Kingdom.
What was the result of the backlash?
The reports led to protests in KuGompo City, a formal apology from Eziko, and the Nigerian government offering repatriation assistance to citizens fearing xenophobic violence.
Looking Forward
By taking full responsibility for the “misunderstanding,” Eziko aims to defuse the tensions in KuGompo City. However, the incident underscores the volatility of cultural installations in foreign lands and the importance of coordinating with local traditional authorities to avoid diplomatic and social friction.