Chidimma Adetshina Withdraws From Miss South Africa Pageant For Her Family’s Safety

Miss South Africa finalist, Chidimma Adetshina has withdrawn from the pageant just two days before the finale.

Chidimma Adetshina, a model of Nigerian heritage, has been facing controversy over her eligibility to compete.

The 23-year-old model was reportedly born in Soweto, South Africa, to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother.

On Wednesday, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs claimed there is preliminary evidence suggesting that Chidimma’s mother may have committed fraud and identity theft.

However, they clarified that Chidimma, being a minor in 2001, was not involved in these criminal activities.

In a statement on Instagram on Thursday, Chidimma Adetshina announced her decision to withdraw from the competition for the safety of her family and herself.

She wrote, “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.

“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.”

 

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A post shared by Chidimma Adetshina (@chichi_vanessa)

KanyiDaily recalls that South African minister, Gayton McKenzie had said that Nigerians should not be allowed to compete in the Miss SA pageant.