Nigerian embassy in South Africa issues warning to citizens ahead of AFCON tie with Bafana Bafana

The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has issued an advisory for its citizens living in South Africa.

The caution, which was released on Monday, referred to some “potentially inflammatory” remarks made on the internet by some South Africans against Nigerians who reside in their nation before the AFCON semifinal.

Nigerians were thus cautioned by the High Commission, in Pretoria, South Africa, to exercise caution and good behaviour before, during, and after one of the most sought-after semi-finals matches of the ongoing competition in Ivory Coast.

The High Commission charged Nigerians not to retaliate in the face of possible provocations. It called on them to report to the appropriate authorities instead of taking laws into their hands.

“The attention of the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday 7th February 2024,” a statement released by the High Commission read.

“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against ‘Nigerians cooking jollof rice’ before the match, and ‘showing pepper to Nigerians if the Bafana Bafana lose to the Super Eagles’, among others.

“In this regard, the High Commission hereby advises the Nigerian community to be watchful of their utterances, be mindful of where they choose to watch the match, especially in public places and refrain from engaging in loud, riotous or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.

“Additionally, Nigerians should maintain the good conduct they are known for, and be law-abiding before, during and after the match. Should any provocations arise, they should not be reciprocated but reported to the appropriate authorities.”