AFCON: South African Official, Clayson Monyela Accused Of Xenophobic Comment

South African Government's Head of Public Diplomacy, Clayson Monyela has said on Twitter that his job requires him to "play nice"

This is as tensions are rising over African Cup Of Nations Semi-Final football match between the Bafana Bafana of South Africa and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Due to an history of xenophobic attacks on foreigners in south African in the past and comments made by some South Africans on social media, the Nigerian high commission in South Africa had released an advisory to Nigerians living there to be careful of where they watch match and to also avoid inflammation comments that can cause conflicts. They were also warned against loud celebrations should Nigeria win the match which is billed for later today.

Mr Monyela who took to Twitter to show displeasure at the Nigerian High Commission said
 

"This is a very unfortunate & regrettable statement issued by our Nigerian friends. It creates unnecessary alarm & tension. #BafanaBafana have played the Super Eagles many times & there's no history of soccer hooliganism associated with the outcome of such encounters. #SouthAfricans🇿🇦 pose no threat to Nigerians. We'll engage our Nigerian counterparts through diplomatic channels further on this. Totally unnecessary!" in response to the advisory warning.

A South African with username "Maradinho10" replied him with

"Your level of tolerance is why all these African countries make SA their playing ground. This level of disrespect should have high consequences, not this jolly-jolly approach you are displaying here."

Mr Monyela then replied with

"My job requires me to "play nice""

Clayson Monyela's reply had gotten reaction as people were mostly shocked at this statement which a lot of people described as having a not so friendly undertone as they ask what Mr Monyela would have done if he isn't at his present work position.

Some Nigerians have used this statement as a justification for the advisory released by the Nigerian High commission as they have viewed it as a veiled threat and further urge Nigerians living in South African to be careful before, during and after the match.