Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant whose Nigerian heritage ignited a national debate and triggered a government investigation, has withdrawn from the competition.
Adetshina’s decision to pull out of Saturday’s final comes from allegations from the Home Affairs Ministry accusing her mother of fraud and identity theft.
In an Instagram post, the 23-year-old law student explained her decision, citing the need for the safety and well-being of herself and her family.
“After much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw myself from the competition,” Adetshina wrote.
Since being announced as a finalist in July, Adetshina has faced intense scrutiny and xenophobic backlash on social media due to her Nigerian descent.
This controversy, which also drew comments from cabinet ministers, led to an investigation into her citizenship status.
Chidimma Adetshina has previously stated that she was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent.
The Home Affairs Ministry’s investigation revealed “prima facie indications” that her mother may have committed identity fraud.
The ministry is currently seeking legal advice on how this could affect Adetshina’s citizenship, given that she was an infant at the time of the alleged fraud.
South African law grants citizenship by birth to those born in the country to South African parents or permanent residents after 1995.
Adetshina’s participation in the pageant had intensified anti-foreigner sentiment, which has historically led to violent attacks on immigrants in South Africa.
The debate over her eligibility sparked reactions from politicians, celebrities, and the public, with opinions divided on whether she should be disqualified.
In her withdrawal announcement, Adetshina expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout her journey in the pageant.
“I am grateful for all the love and support I have been shown,” she wrote.
