NUSA explains backlash over Nigerian king coronation in East London

File: Nigeria flags seen raised at the MKO Abiola National stadium in Abuja, Nigeria, June 12, 2020.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has sought to clarify that the coronation of a Nigerian King in East London does not seek to replicate or compete with the traditional authority that exists in the locality.

The union says the title only seeks to preserve the culture of Nigerians living abroad. There has been some backlash over the recent coronation of a Nigerian national, Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko, who was installed as a King in East London.

The African Transformation Movement has since called for a probe into this matter after it was revealed that the local traditional leaders were not consulted before this coronation.

NUSA president Nwobi Smart says the title bears no significance to the local establishment framework or structure of the host nation.

“This Cultural Ambassador seeks to be a go-between the local authorities of the Nigerians residing in those areas, as well as to be a go-between the embassies or consulates if there’s any issue between a Nigerian national to have been found wanting or been out of place. Now, this cultural ambassador is a person whom is usually called in order to intervene if there attacks within that locality.”

The AbaThembu Royal Council says it’s going to write to the Nigerian Consulate in South Africa about the alleged coronation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape.

— SABC News (@SABCNews) March 22, 2026