AFCON Semi-Final: Avoid Loud Celebrations – High Commission Warns Nigerians In South Africa

The Nigerian community in South Africa has been cautioned against excessive jubilation in the event of a victory by the Super Eagles over Bafana Bafana.

The clash between Nigeria and South Africa is scheduled for Wednesday, as part of the ongoing 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

However, the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has deemed it necessary to issue this warning to its citizens residing in the country of Nelson Mandela.

On Monday, the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria issued an advisory regarding online comments made by some South African citizens against Nigerians residing in the host country.

These comments, the commission observed, have been largely influenced by the upcoming AFCON semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana, scheduled for Wednesday, 7th February 2024.

The high commission has expressed concern over the potentially inflammatory nature of these comments and cautioned Nigerian citizens against falling victim to any violent act.

“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 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,” the commission’s statement noted.