Miss Universe Nigeria, Adetshina, loses South African citizenship

The faceoff between South Africa and 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina, is not ending anytime soon as the country has commenced processes to strip her of citizenship.

The issues stems from nationality controversy.

The Department of Home Affairs launched an investigation into Adetshina’s status after she became a finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant, only to face backlash over her eligibility due to her Mozambican and Nigerian heritage.

Diaspora Digital Media understands that the scrutiny intensified following allegations that Adetshina’s mother may have committed “identity theft” to obtain South African nationality, a claim that ultimately led to Adetshina’s withdrawal from the Miss South Africa competition in August.

Following her exit, the 23 year old law student accepted an invitation to compete in Miss Universe Nigeria, a decision that fueled an upsurge of xenophobic criticism online.

Adetshina later said she would “need therapy to recover” from the vitriol.

As of Tuesday, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs informed a parliamentary committee that Adetshina and her mother would lose their documents, having failed to meet a deadline to justify their citizenship claims.

Tommy Makhode, a senior official in the department, stated that their case has been referred to the Hawks—a police unit handling serious crimes—who concluded it was a “case of fraud.”

Makhode noted that further action would depend on prosecutors’ decisions.

Amid the backlash, Adetshina maintains a strong sense of dual identity. In an interview with the BBC, she expressed feeling “proudly South African” and “proudly Nigerian.”

Adetshina, who was born in Soweto, has recently arrived in Mexico, where she will represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe competition on November 16, competing alongside international contestants, including Mia le Roux, the reigning Miss South Africa.

The agency reported that the ongoing controversy touches on broader issues of identity, nationality, and xenophobia in South Africa.

I’m innocent -Adetshina

In an exclusive interview, Adetshina maintained her stance, reaffirming her dual identity as both Nigerian and South African.

“I was born in Soweto, South Africa, and I have always been proud to call myself South African. My Nigerian heritage is equally important to me, and I will not let anyone take that away.”

Addressing the allegations, Adetshina clarified, “My mother did not commit identity theft. We have provided all necessary documents to prove our citizenship claims. I am confident that the truth will prevail.”

Despite the challenges, Adetshina remains focused on her Miss Universe journey, representing Nigeria in the upcoming competition in Mexico.

“I will make Nigeria proud and show the world the beauty, resilience, and strength of Nigerian women.”

“I believe that my experience can serve as a platform to promote unity, acceptance, and inclusivity. I will continue to stand tall and proudly celebrate my dual heritage,” Adetshina concluded.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook