The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has advised Nigerians in South Africa to refrain from celebrating loudly if Nigeria wins against South Africa in the AFCON Semi Finals and to be cautious about where they watch the game.
This advice has drawn criticism from South Africa’s Foreign Ministry, stating that such an advisory creates unnecessary tension between South African citizens and Nigerians.
The Ministry emphasized that there has been no history of soccer-related violence among South Africans following matches against Nigeria.
DIRCO has learned about an unfortunate advisory issued by the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Pretoria.
The advisory is regrettable as it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between South African citizens and Nigerians living in or visiting SA.
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) February 6, 2024
They reassured that South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens and urged diplomatic representatives to address concerns through proper channels.
