AFCON: Nigeria High Commission raises alarm over threat to Nigerians in South Africa

Joseph Irikefe

As the tension of the Wednesday’s potentially volatile encounter of Nigeria and South Africa gets to fever pitch, the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has raised alarm bothering on the safety of Nigerians in South Africa.

Advisory to Nigerians in South Africa

In an advisory issued by the High Commission in Pretoria, the embassy states:

“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 February 7 2024.

“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against “Nigerians cooking jollof rice” before the match, and “showing pepper to Nigerians if 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 !he match. Should any provocations arise, they should not be reciprocated but reported to the appropriate authorities.”