Nigerians residing in South Africa have received a warning to exercise caution in their reactions if the Super Eagles triumph over the Bafana Bafana during the ongoing CAF African Cup of Nations. The advisory came from the Nigeria High Commission in South Africa, as revealed in a statement on Monday.
Titled ‘Advisory on Safe Conduct for Nigerians in South Africa Before, During and After 2024 AFCON Match Between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana,’ the statement emphasized the need for Nigerians to uphold lawfulness before, during, and after the football encounter.
The High Commission expressed concern over potentially incendiary online remarks from some South African citizens aimed at Nigerians living in the host country, largely driven by the impending semi-final clash between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
These comments included veiled threats related to ‘Nigerians cooking jollof rice’ and ‘showing pepper to Nigerians if the Bafana Bafana lose to Super Eagles.’ The statement urged Nigerians to be mindful of their speech, choose their viewing locations cautiously, and avoid engaging in disruptive celebrations should the Super Eagles emerge victorious.
Furthermore, the High Commission stressed the importance of Nigerians maintaining exemplary behavior and promptly reporting any provocations to the relevant authorities.
It underscored the need for continued adherence to good conduct before, during, and after the match, emphasizing that any instances of provocation should be reported rather than reciprocated.
In other football news, Nigeria secured a semi-final spot at the AFCON after Ademola Lookman’s goal sealed a 1-0 victory over Angola in the quarter-finals. Lookman’s decisive goal in the 41st minute paved the way for a semi-final showdown against South Africa on Wednesday.
