The embattled Miss South Africa contestant, Chidimma Adetshina, who has been under investigation regarding her nationality, has decided to withdraw from the pageant.
Chidimma, a model of Nigerian and Mozambican heritage, has faced scrutiny over her eligibility to participate in this year’s Miss South Africa competition. Born in Soweto, South Africa, the 23-year-old's background has been called into question, leading to a thorough inquiry.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) for South Africa asserted on Wednesday that there is preliminary evidence indicating potential fraud and identity theft involving Adetshina’s mother. The department clarified that Chidimma, who was a minor at the time of the alleged activities in 2001, was not directly implicated in the fraudulent conduct.
In a statement posted on her Instagram account on Thursday, Chidimma expressed her decision to withdraw from the competition in order to prioritize the safety and well-being of her family and herself.
“I would like to start off by thanking everyone beside me right from the start of my Miss South Africa journey. I’m really grateful for all the love and support I’ve been shown,” she wrote.
“Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey, however after much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw myself from the competition for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I.
“With the support of the Miss South Africa organisation, I leave with a heart full of gratitude for this amazing experience.
“I would like to take this opportunity to wish my fellow finalists all the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever represents us wears the crown for all.”
Chidimma was among the 10 women expected to participate in the Miss South Africa grand finale on August 10, 2024, in Pretoria. The winner will represent South Africa at this year’s Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.