Ivory Coast deports, places life ban on Algerian influencer Sofia Benlemmane

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Algerian influencer Sofia Benlemmane has been arrested and deported from Ivory Coast after she used “derogatory remarks” against the West African country.

Benlemmane has also received a life ban following a viral video where was portrayed Ivory Coast in a negative way.

“Sofia Benlemmane, an Algerian supporter, was arrested yesterday at the stadium by the Rapid Intervention Brigade following comments made against Ivory Coast,” Actu Foot stated.

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“She was expelled and banned from Ivory Coast for life.”

Benlemmane had uploaded a clip on social media comparing Ivory Coast unfavourably with her country Algeria. She also used derogatory language towards the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 hosts.

The Algerian supporter and influencer had travelled to Ivory Coast with other fans to watch the continental football showpiece.

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“They live in misery here. I recorded a video yesterday at the bus station, and it’s the worst, like the prehistoric era. If I had some powers, I would have brought Algerians here to witness this,” Benlemmane said in the video.

“What a difference with Algeria! Long live Algeria. I thank God for giving me a country like Algeria. Normally, Algeria is not supposed to be in Africa. It was supposed to be situated between Portugal and Spain.”