Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant, has withdrawn from the competition, citing concerns for her and her family’s safety and well-being.
Adetshina’s decision comes just a day after the Home Affairs Department launched a preliminary investigation into allegations of “identity theft” involving her mother. The investigation suggested that Adetshina’s mother may have fraudulently obtained South African citizenship.
In an Instagram post announcing her withdrawal, the 23-year-old law student stated, “I have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition.” She did not directly address the findings of the investigation but expressed gratitude for the support she had received, wishing the best for the remaining contestants. “Whoever wears the crown, represents us all,” Adetshina added.
Adetshina, who was born in Soweto and raised in Cape Town, has faced scrutiny over her nationality in recent weeks. She has clarified in interviews that her father is Nigerian and her mother is South African with Mozambican heritage. The controversy intensified on social media, with questions arising about her South African citizenship.
The Home Affairs Department reported that its investigation found evidence suggesting that Adetshina’s mother may have used an “innocent” South African’s identity to acquire citizenship. The department noted that Adetshina “could not have participated in the alleged unlawful actions of her mother as she was an infant at the time.” Further investigations are underway, including potential criminal charges and legal assessments regarding Adetshina’s citizenship status.
As the situation unfolds, Adetshina has chosen to step away from the spotlight, prioritizing her family’s safety amidst the ongoing scrutiny.
