A Miss South Africa contestant whose Nigerian heritage ignited a national controversy and prompted a government investigation withdrew from the beauty pageant on Thursday.
Chidimma Adetshina announced her decision to step down just days before Saturday’s final, following accusations from the Home Affairs ministry that her mother had committed fraud and identity theft.
“After much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition for the safety and wellbeing of my family and me,” Adetshina, 23, shared on Instagram.
Since being named a finalist in July, Adetshina, a law student, has faced relentless xenophobic attacks on social media, with some—including cabinet ministers—questioning her eligibility due to her Nigerian background.
Adetshina previously told local media she was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent.
The controversy led the pageant organizers to request an investigation into her citizenship. On Wednesday, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber revealed that the inquiry had found “prima facie indications” of fraud, suggesting that Adetshina’s mother may have stolen the identity of a South African woman.
The ministry is now seeking legal advice on how this might affect Adetshina’s citizenship, as the alleged fraud occurred when she was an infant.
In South Africa, anyone born in the country after 1995 to a South African parent or permanent resident is granted citizenship by birth.
Adetshina’s involvement in the pageant fueled anti-foreigner sentiments in a country that has seen violent and sometimes deadly attacks on immigrants in the past.
The controversy sparked widespread debate, with politicians, celebrities, and citizens voicing their opinions. While many defended her, others argued she should be disqualified.
In her statement announcing her withdrawal, Adetshina expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her Miss South Africa journey, saying, “I am really grateful for all the love and support I have been shown.”