JUST IN: Tension in S’Africa Over Super Eagles, Bafana Bafana Clash Today in AFCON Semi-Final

…Nigerians Cautioned Against Comments, Celebrations

Juliet Jacob Ochenje

The High Commission of Nigeria in Southern Africa has warned Nigerian residents in South Africa against provocative comments on the AFCON Semi-Final Match between the two countries today in Cote D’Ivoire.

The High Commissioner charged Nigerians on the need to maintain decorum if the Super Eagles defeat Bafana Bafana

The charge is coming on the heels of inflammatory remarks made by some South African citizens online, which include veiled threats referring to Nigerians preparing jollof rice and “showing pepper” to Nigerians in the event of a Bafana Bafana loss.

The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa in a statement titled ‘Advisory on Safe Conduct for Nigerians in South Africa Before, During, and After 2024 AFCON Match Between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, warned Nigerians to desist from comments capable of causing violence.

The Nigerian High Commission advised Nigerians to carefully select their viewing locations, especially in public spaces, and to avoid engaging in loud or riotous celebrations if the Super Eagles win. The commission also emphasised the importance of maintaining good behaviour and following the law before, during, and after the match.

Instead of retaliating, Nigerians are encouraged to report any provocations to the authorities.

In response to this warning, the South African government has addressed the issue of “provocative celebrations” among Nigerian citizens in their country after the Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana match.

South Africa’s warning aimed to prevent xenophobic attacks by frustrated South African fans, but the country argues that it has only caused unnecessary alarm. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation stated that there is no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans when playing against Nigeria and that South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens. The advisory is seen as regrettable and likely to create tension between the citizens of the two nations.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has not responded to South Africa’s statement.

But South Africa has witnessed xenophobic attacks in recent years.

He also advised them to avoid participating in boisterous, disorderly, or provocative celebrations if the Super Eagles emerge victorious.

The game will commence at 17:00 GMT on Wednesday in the city of Bouaké in Ivory Coast.

The hosts Ivory Coast will face off against the Democratic Republic of Congo in another semi-final match.

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