Miss South Africa Contestant Steps Down Due to Citizenship Fraud

Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant for Miss South Africa, has decided to leave the contest because of a big issue over her Nigerian roots and an investigation by the government. She made this decision just before the final contest on Saturday. 

This happened after the Home Affairs Ministry said her mother might have committed fraud and stolen someone’s identity.

“I have thought a lot about this and have decided to step back from the contest to keep my family and myself safe,” said 23-year-old Adetshina on Instagram. Since being named a finalist in July, Adetshina, who is studying law, has been targeted on social media with harsh, xenophobic comments.

Some government officials even doubted if she should be allowed in the contest because she is of Nigerian descent.

Adetshina was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother with roots in Mozambique. There was an inquiry into her citizenship started by the contest organizers. On Wednesday, the Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber, said the investigation showed signs that Adetshina’s mother might have done something illegal, which could affect Adetshina’s citizenship.

South Africa gives citizenship to anyone born in the country after 1995 if at least one of their parents is South African or a permanent resident.

Adetshina’s participation brought up feelings against foreigners in South Africa, a country where there have been violent attacks against immigrants before.

Despite the difficulties, Adetshina thanked her supporters: “Thanks to everyone who has supported me from the start of my Miss South Africa journey. I really appreciate all the love and support,” she said on social media.