Nigerian nationals residing in South Africa have received a firm warning to refrain from participating in any wild celebrations if their team wins their AFCON semi-final match.
The team labelled ‘Super Eagles’ are set to face Bafana in what is expected to be a must win match, as the winner will move one step closer to winning the African cup.
Ahead of the big encounter the Nigerian High Commission issued a statement warning its citizens not to engage in form of celebration should the Super Eagles win. This comes after a series of online comments sparked fear that Nigerians living in the country may become victims of physical attacks.
“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against ‘Nigerians cooking jollof rice’ before the match and ‘pepper to Nigerians if Bafana Bafana lose to the Super Eagles.”
“In this regard, the High Commission hereby advises the Nigerian community to he watchful of their utterances and be mindful where you choose to watch the match especially in public spaces,” said the High Commission.
DIRCO DISMISS THE NIGERIAN LETTER AS HOGWASH!@DIRCO_ZA has reacted angrily to the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria for disrespecting South Africans and portraying them as soccer hooligans. pic.twitter.com/yXxFIz081G
— Dudula News (@DudulaMedia) February 7, 2024
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has criticised the claims highlighting that there has never been a case of “hooliganism” at any of the matches between the two countries in the past.
In a statement of their own Dirco added: “We are confident that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens, and we do not agree with the apprehension expressed by the Commission.”
Dirco criticised the Nigerian High Commission’s remarks saying that it creates unnecessary tensions.
Also see: Mmusi Maimane throws shade at Nigeria ahead of AFCON semi’s
