The High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in South Africa has warned Nigerians residing in South Africa against the threats of South Africans, who have vowed to attack Nigerians in their country should the country lose its match against Nigeria.
The warning was contained in a letter dated February 5, 2024, and titled, “Advisory on Safe Conduct for Nigerians in South Africa Before and After 2024 AFCON Match Between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana”.
The letter reads in part:
“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 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.
“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 provocations should the Super Eagles win the match.
“Additionally, Nigerians should maintain the good contact 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.”
