The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the safety of its nationals living in South Africa.
“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,” a statement from the High Commission read.
It said the threats are largely influenced by the 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, 7 February.
“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,” the High Commission said.
The High Commission urged Nigerians in South Africa to be mindful of their utterances, as well as where they choose to watch the match, especially in public places.
It also advised that they refrain from engaging in loud, riotous or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.
The High Commission encouraged them to continue to remain law abiding and report to the appropriate authorities should any provocation occur.