The Nigerian embassy in South Africa has warned Nigerian citizens residing in the country to avoid engaging in wild celebrations if the Super Eagles triumph in the upcoming AFCON semi-final clash against Bafana Bafana in Ivory Coast.
The embassy cited potentially inflammatory online comments and veiled threats from a section of South African citizens.
In a statement, the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria urged Nigerian nationals to choose public places to observe the match and advised against engaging in loud, riotous, or provocative celebrations if the Super Eagles emerge victorious.
The embassy highlighted concerns related to comments about “Nigerians cooking jollof rice” and threats of retaliation in case of a Bafana Bafana loss.
The advisory also emphasized the importance of maintaining good conduct, being mindful of utterances, and refraining from reciprocating provocations.
In the event of any provocations, Nigerians were encouraged to report them to the appropriate authorities.
The warning comes against the backdrop of previous xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where Nigerian migrants were among those targeted.
