Chidimma Adetshina Withdraws From Miss SA Pageant

Chidimma Adetshina's journey in the Miss South Africa pageant took an unexpected turn as she announced her withdrawal from the competition. The 23-year-old became the target of hostile and xenophobic attacks on social media after being named a finalist in July. This backlash prompted questions about her credentials, even from cabinet ministers, and led to a formal investigation by the Home Affairs Ministry.

The investigation, initiated at the request of the pageant organizers, uncovered "prima facie indications" that Chidimma's mother might have committed fraud by stealing the identity of a South African woman shortly after Chidimma was born. This revelation cast a shadow over her participation in the pageant and added fuel to the already intense scrutiny she faced.

In a heartfelt post on her Instagram account, Chidimma shared her decision to step down from the competition, citing her family's safety as her top priority. "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," she wrote.

Despite the controversy, Chidimma expressed gratitude for the experience and support she received during her time in the competition. "Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey," she continued. "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."

Chidimma also expressed appreciation for the support she received from the Miss South Africa Organization and wished her fellow finalists well. "I leave with a heart full of gratitude for this amazing experience," she 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."