The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has stated that South Africa does not pose any danger to the citizens of Nigeria, as the two countries are set to face each other in the semi-final match of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) on Wednesday evening.
The statement follows a safety advisory issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Tuesday, for its citizens residing in South Africa.
“The attention of the Nigerian High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigeria living in the host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations Bafana Bafana [semi-final match] on Wednesday,” the Commission’s statement read.
It advised citizens to be cautious of where they watch the match, particularly in public places, and to avoid loud, riotous or provocative celebrations if Nigerians win the match, both before and after the game.
ALSO READ: South Africa explores investment plans with Nigeria.
However, the Dirco has since described the Commission’s advisory as “unfortunate”.
“The advisory is regrettable because it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between the citizens of South Africa and Nigerians living in or visiting South Africa,” Dirco said.
“The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has played against their Nigerian counterparts, the Super Eagles, on many occasions, and there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with the outcome of such encounters.”
The department has since called on the diplomatic representatives to approach the department to address any concerns about diplomatic matters.
“We are confident that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens, and we do not agree with the apprehension expressed by the High Commission.”
