A Miss South Africa contestant, Chidimma Adetshina, has withdrawn from the pageant in view of the ongoing investigations into her nationality.
The 23-year-old model, born in Soweto, South Africa, and of Nigerian and Mozambican descent, faced scrutiny over her eligibility to compete in the prestigious event.
The controversy began when the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in South Africa revealed preliminary evidence suggesting that Adetshina’s mother may have committed fraud and identity theft.
According to the DHA, the alleged fraudulent activities occurred in 2001 when Chidimma was still a minor and not involved in any illegal actions.
Announcing her withdrawal in a statement posted on her Instagram page on Thursday, Chidimma said cited concerns for the safety of her family as the primary reason for her withdrawal.
“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,” Chidimma wrote.
She added, “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 finalists expected to compete in the Miss South Africa grand finale on August 10, 2024, in Pretoria.
The winner of the pageant will go on to represent South Africa at the Miss Universe pageant later this year in Mexico.
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