South Africa has raised concerns with the Nigerian government over the alleged installation of an unrecognised “Igbo King” in the Eastern Cape, as well as the alleged involvement of some Nigerian nationals in organised crime and hijacked buildings.
The issues came up during high-level talks in Abuja, where both governments sought to ease recent tensions and protect bilateral ties.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola led the South African delegation as special envoy from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Department spokesman Chrispin Phiri said Lamola delivered an official message from Ramaphosa to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who then named a high-level Nigerian delegation for structured discussions.
Phiri said the talks were candid, constructive and forward-looking, with both sides focusing on restoring goodwill and strengthening relations between South Africa and Nigeria.
The two countries have been trading criticism in recent months, especially over immigration, xenophobic violence and the treatment of foreign nationals.
Lamola said one major concern was the alleged installation of an unrecognised traditional ruler in March 2026.
Videos and photos shared online showed a group in traditional Igbo attire appointing Chief Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as the “Igwe Ndigbo” of KuGompo in the Eastern Cape.
The event triggered public anger and unrest in the area. Both South African and Nigerian authorities later clarified to the hysterical crowd that the so-called king is not a recognised sovereign leader.
Lamola said this happened while South Africa was still working through the constitutional role of traditional leadership in its post-apartheid system.
That system gives formal recognition to traditional leaders, but only within the rules set by South African law.
Crime, Migration And Public Safety
Lamola also raised concerns about Nigerian nationals and other foreign citizens allegedly linked to organised crime, drug trafficking and financial fraud.
Phiri said that as of July 7, 2026, more than 500 Nigerian nationals had been processed through South Africa’s criminal justice system for various offences. He said the figure underlined the need for stronger cross-border security cooperation.
He also raised the issue of law enforcement officers facing violent resistance during criminal investigations.
In addition, he pointed to hijacked residential and commercial properties in places such as Hillbrow in Johannesburg and Sunnyside in Pretoria, where unlawful occupation has affected safety for both local residents and foreign nationals.
According to Phiri, the discussions also addressed public perceptions of Nigerians living in South Africa.
“Regrettably, these incidents have fueled negative perceptions surrounding Nigerian nationals living in South Africa over the years,” he said. “Addressing these challenges firmly, fairly, and within the bounds of the law is vital for the well-being of both our nations.”
Both delegations agreed that inflammatory rhetoric should be reduced and that disputes should be handled through formal channels.
Lamola said South Africa rejects xenophobia, racism, discrimination and related intolerance.
“While crime and lawlessness will be met with the full force of the law, public frustration or criminal activity can never be used to justify vigilante violence, intimidation, or attacks against foreign nationals,” he said.
He added: “Law enforcement remains the exclusive prerogative of the state.” He also said arrests had taken place and investigations were still underway.
Mahama Receives Lamola After Tinubu Snub
The envoy later travelled to Ghana, where he said he met President John Mahama in Accra as part of the same regional outreach.
He said both sides rejected xenophobia and violence and backed safe, regular and orderly migration across Africa, in line with the African Union’s push for cooperation on migration and security.
The Abuja and Accra engagements show how South Africa is trying to calm tensions with Nigeria while defending its concerns over crime, migration and public order.
They also point to a wider effort to keep diplomatic channels open as anti-immigrant anger and security fears continue to shape relations between the two countries.
Wait let me understand something, so basically they are trying to shift blame to Nigerians? That it is their fault for the xenophobic attacks? Hmm, it is well. What is Nigeria—South Africa ambassador response to this? Forget the ambassador, foreign minister sat there and condon this? Mr President too?
It is well.