Nigeria Warns Citizens in South Africa Ahead of AFCON Semi-final
The Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria has warned Nigerians in South Africa to be measured in their jubilation in case the Super Eagles win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament semi-final clash today.
A statement released by the Commission alluded to some banters over the crucial game in Cote d’Ivoire between Nigerians and South Africans.
“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 the 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.”
“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.”
It has warned expats to be measured in case the need arises for their jubilation and exhibit good conduct before, during and after the match.
“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.”
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face off with the Bafana Bafana of South Africa this evening at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
The two rivals will today make their 15th clash in AFCON with both sides seeking a win for the finals.
If the past is anything to rely on, Nigeria have proven dominant against South Africa having recorded 7 victories in their past 14 encounters with 5 draws.
