Chidimma Adetshina withdraws from Miss SA pageant as government launches investigation
Miss South Africa (Miss SA) Top 10 finalist, Chidimma Adetshina, has officially withdrawn from the competition, expressing concerns for her safety and well-being.
The 23-year-old, who had previously spoken openly about her struggles with mental health, announced her decision just days before the pageant’s grand finale, scheduled for Saturday, August 10, at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria.
Controversy Surrounding Chidimma’s Family Background
Chidimma’s withdrawal comes in the wake of intense scrutiny over her family background, particularly allegations involving her Nigerian father and Mozambican mother.
The pair have been accused of fraud and identity theft, allegations that have drawn significant public attention and pressure on the young contestant.
Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, recently issued a statement indicating a preliminary investigation into claims that Chidimma’s mother may have been involved in fraudulent activities.
This development led to widespread calls for Chidimma to step down from the competition.
Chidimma’s Statement on Her Withdrawal
In a statement shared via Instagram, Chidimma Adetshina explained that her desire to ensure her family’s safety influenced her decision to withdraw from the Miss SA pageant.
She said, “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 from the competition for the safety and well-being of my family and me.”
“With the support of the Miss South Africa organization, 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 of the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever wears the crown represents us all,” she added.
Chidimma signed off her statement using her full name, Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina. Her Instagram post, announcing her withdrawal, had its comments turned off but was liked by the official Miss SA pageant account.
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs calls for calm
In response to the situation, the South African Department of Home Affairs has called for calm and urged the public not to incite xenophobia amid the ongoing investigation. The department emphasized the importance of safeguarding due process and respecting the constitutional rights of all parties involved.
“We call on South Africans to support our work by safeguarding due process, respecting the constitutional rights of all parties at all times, and refraining from inflaming divisions,” the statement read. “By upholding these principles, we can rebuild the rule of law, together.”
The department’s call for calm highlights the sensitive nature of the situation and the need for responsible public discourse as the investigation continues.
