South Africa: Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, Miss South Africa contestant withdraws from the competition, as faces rage of people over her fake citizenship. Her mother was accused of hiding her real identity and claiming to be the citizen of South Africa.
Following the receival of scrutiny over her nationality, Chidimma confirmed of her withdrawal on Thursday, before which, the Department of Home Affairs announced that it had obtained information that her mother might have committed fraud and identity theft to support nationality claims.
In her withdrawal note that Adetshina released on her ‘X’ handle (formerly known as twitter), expressed, “I would like to start off by thanking everyone who has stood beside me right from the start of my Miss South Africa journey.”
“I’m really grateful for all the love and support I have been shown,” said the contestant in her statement on August 08, 2024. She also stated that 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 well-being of my family and I. With the support of the Miss South Africa Organisation, I decide to leave with a heart full of gratitude for this amazing experience I gained,” confirmed Adetshina.
She extended her gratitude and further stated, “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.”
Chidimma has experienced abuse on social media since she entered into the finals of the pageant. The model aged 23, was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican origin.
The organisers said that she was eligible to compete, as she holds a valid ID and passport, moreover the nation grants citizenship by birth to anyone born in the country after 1995.
Home Affairs Department continues with their investigation. They have broadened the investigation into the nationality issue, targeting the officials who may have abetted it.
The department said that it has initiated an ongoing probe, after a request by Miss South Africa Organisers and the consent by contestant Chidimma and her mother.
Considering the matter, Home Affairs Minister – Leon Schreiber said that the Miss SA contestant was, not to blame in the saga, as she was an infant at the time her mother is alleged to have committed the crime.
“The department has broadened its investigation to identify and pursue any officials involved in the alleged fraudulent scheme, and is obtaining legal advice on the implications of the alleged fraudulent activity on Adetshina’s citizenship status. Upon, the completion of the investigation, Home Affairs intends to press criminal charges against all implicated parties,” said the Minister.