The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has issued a cautionary notice to Nigerians residing in the country ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 semi-final match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.
Despite the match taking place in Bouake, Cote d’Ivoire, concerns have been raised about potential repercussions for Nigerians in South Africa based on the outcome.
In response to these apprehensions, the Nigeria High Commission in South Africa has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and exercise caution before, during, and after the Wednesday’s semi-final encounter.
An advisory issued on Tuesday, February 6, 2023, the High Commission in Pretoria included guidance for Nigerians regarding their behavior and actions surrounding the match.
“The Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria has noted with concern the inflammatory online remarks made by certain segments of South African citizens regarding Nigerians, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, 7 February 2024.
“Many of these comments include veiled threats against ‘Nigerians cooking jollof rice’ ahead of the match and ‘showing pepper to Nigerians if Bafana Bafana loses to the Super Eagles,’ among others.
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“In light of this, the High Commission advises the Nigerian community to exercise caution in their words, choose their viewing venues carefully, particularly in public places, and refrain from engaging in loud, riotous, or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles emerge victorious.
“Furthermore, Nigerians are urged to maintain their exemplary conduct and adhere to the law before, during, and after the match. Any provocations should be reported to the appropriate authorities rather than retaliated,” the Commission noted.
The caution by the High Commission comes on the back of several zenophobic attacks recorded against Nigerians living in South Africa in recent times.
