Lamola cites crime, ‘Igbo King’ controversy among issues straining SA-Nigeria ties

International relations and co-operation minister Ronald Lamola says organised crime involving some Nigerian nationals, the purported installation of an unrecognised “Igbo King” in the Eastern Cape and resistance to law enforcement operations were among the issues discussed during diplomatic talks between South Africa and Nigeria. Lamola has reiterated that shared migration and public safety challenges are best resolved through formal diplomatic channels, institutional security partnerships and strict adherence to constitutional rights. This comes after Lamola, acting as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s special envoy, concluded a diplomatic mission to Nigeria where he delivered an official message from Ramaphosa to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tinubu designated a high-level Nigerian government delegation to engage in the structured talks. According to the department of international relations, the discussions were candid, constructive and forward-looking, focusing on restoring mutual goodwill and strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The two governments reaffirmed that bilateral diplomacy and Pan-African solidarity remain the essential frameworks to ensure peaceful coexistence, safeguard human rights and deepen historical ties between South Africa and Nigeria.

During the meeting, Lamola outlined three specific areas of concern that have heightened recent tensions between the two countries, including the alleged installation of an “Igbo King” in the Eastern Cape in March this year, which caused widespread public concern across the country. He also raised concerns about the involvement of foreign nationals, including Nigerian citizens, in organised crime, illicit drug trafficking and financial fraud. Lamola said as of July 7, more than 500 Nigerian nationals had been processed through the country’s criminal justice system for offences, highlighting the need for enhanced cross-border security co-operation.

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He addressed instances where law enforcement officers faced violent resistance or obstruction during criminal investigations. “Specific concern was raised regarding hijacked residential and commercial properties in urban centres such as Hillbrow (Johannesburg) and Sunnyside (Pretoria), where unlawful enclaves have compromised public safety for local residents and foreign nationals,” he said. Lamola said these incidents have fuelled negative perceptions surrounding Nigerian nationals living in South Africa over the years.

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