Chidimma Adetshina faces more hurdles in Miss Universe Nigeria participation afer South African citizenship row
Chidimma Adetshina, a former contestant in the Miss South Africa pageant
Chidimma Adetshina, a former contestant in the Miss South Africa pageant, has been invited to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant following her recent withdrawal from the South African competition.
The move comes after scrutiny over her citizenship status, which led to a probe by South African authorities.
Adetshina, 23, made headlines when she announced her decision to pull out of Miss South Africa due to allegations that her mother, who is of Mozambican descent, may have committed identity fraud to secure South African citizenship in 2001, the same year Adetshina was born.
The controversy raised questions about her eligibility to compete, given her mixed heritage with a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican descent.
In response to these challenges, the Miss Universe Nigeria organizers extended an invitation to Adetshina.
Guy Murray-Bruce, the national director of the pageant, expressed support for Adetshina, acknowledging her Nigerian heritage.
Murray-Bruce said in a statement: “We understand the difficulties you’ve faced, and as a Nigerian by heritage, we believe you would be an exceptional contestant for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.”
However, the invitation has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that it may be unfair to other contestants who have gone through the rigorous selection process to reach the finals.
They suggest that Adetshina should consider participating in next year’s pageant to ensure fairness.
Also, there are concerns about whether Adetshina has the proper documentation to represent Nigeria, given her South African citizenship and birthplace.
The Miss Universe Nigeria organizers have encouraged Adetshina to accept the invitation if she wishes to compete, assuring her of support and guidance through the process.
The situation has sparked a debate about nationality and eligibility in international beauty pageants, with many observing how these issues will be addressed.
The 23-year-old law student had come under intense scrutiny and xenophobic abuse following her entry into the prestigious pageant.
Adetshina, born in Soweto and currently residing in Cape Town, faced relentless questioning regarding her eligibility to represent South Africa.
Critics have challenged her South African citizenship and questioned her loyalty after a video of her celebrating with Nigerian relatives went viral.
