The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has advised Nigerians in the Southern African country to be mindful of where they watch the semi-final match between both countries on Wednesday.
Nigeria and South Africa will face-off in the Ivorian city of Bouak for a place in the final of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday.
The High Commission noted that the football rivalry between the two countries is fuelled on social media with provocative comments that could incite violence.
The Super Eagles defeated Angola 2-0 to make into the semi-final while Bafana Bafana thumped Cape Verde on penalties with a 2-1 win.
The advisory that was released on Tuesday read: “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 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 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.”
The last time Nigeria and South Africa played in an AFCON game was in 2019, and it ended 2-1 in favour of the Super Eagles in Egypt.
