The current reigning Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, is embroiled in a citizenship controversy that could lead to the revocation of her South African citizenship and travel documents.
An investigation by the Department of Home Affairs was initiated following Adetshina’s participation in the Miss South Africa pageant. Concerns were raised about her eligibility due to her Mozambican and Nigerian background.
The scrutiny intensified after allegations surfaced that Adetshina’s mother might have used fraudulent means to obtain South African citizenship, resulting in Adetshina withdrawing from the Miss South Africa competition.
Subsequently, Adetshina opted to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, which triggered a wave of xenophobic criticism online.
Adetshina disclosed to the BBC that she has been deeply affected by the negative comments and may require therapy to cope with the backlash.
Recently, the Department of Home Affairs announced that Adetshina and her mother failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their citizenship claims, leading to the decision to revoke their documents. The case has been referred to law enforcement for further investigation as it is being treated as a fraud case.
Despite the challenges, Adetshina remains proud of her dual heritage, identifying as both South African and Nigerian.
Currently, Adetshina is in Mexico preparing to represent Nigeria in the upcoming Miss Universe competition, scheduled for November 16, where she will compete against contestants from around the world.
This controversy highlights broader issues surrounding identity, nationality, and xenophobia in South Africa.