Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant, has withdrawn from the competition citing concerns for her safety and wellbeing, as well as that of her family.
Gatekeepers News reports that the decision comes after a tumultuous few weeks, during which Adetshina faced xenophobic attacks on social media and scrutiny over her citizenship.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s participation in the pageant began when the government accused her mother of fraud and identity theft.
An investigation by the Home Affairs Ministry found “prima facie indications” that Adetshina’s mother may have stolen the identity of a South African woman after Adetshina’s birth.
In a statement on her Instagram account, Adetshina said that withdrawing from the pageant was a difficult decision, but the safety of her family takes precedence.
The post reads, “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.
“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 of the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever wears the crown represents us all.”
