7th February, 2024
By Fortune Abang
The Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa has asked Nigerians to refrain from engaging in loud, riotous, or provocational celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match against Bafana Bafana, the national team of the former Apartheid’s enclave today.
The Nigeria High Commission gave the warning following comments on social media by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in the country over the 2024 AFCON Semi-final match between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana coming up later today, Wednesday, 7th February 2024.
The High Commission especially advised on Nigerians who would watch the match, especially in public places in South Africa to avoid unguarded utterances
According to a statement by the High Commission, the aim is to encourage safe conduct by Nigerians in South Africa before, during and after the match.
“The attention of the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in the country.
“This is largely influenced by the 2024 AFCON Semi-final match between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana on Wednesday.
“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against 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.
The statement advised those who would watch the match, especially in public places to refrain from engaging in loud, riotous or provocational celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.
The mission urged Nigerians to maintain the good conduct they were known for and be law-abiding before, during and after the match.
It further added that “should any provocation arise, they should not be reciprocated, but such should be reported to the appropriate authorities”. (NAN)