By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Miss South Africa contestant Chidimma Adetshina, who has became the subject of an investigation into her nationality, has withdrawn her participation from the pageant.
She made the announcement on her Instagram page on Thursday.
The decision comes a day after the Department of Home Affairs said it found prima facie indications of fraud and identity theft committed by Adetshina’s mother. The department found this after it launched an investigation into her citizenship.
In a statement, DHA Minister Leon Schreiber, said an innocent South African mother had her identity stolen as part of the fraud committed by Adetshina’s mother.
“Adetshina could not have participated in the alleged unlawful actions of her mother, as she was an infant at the time when the activities took place in 2001,” the Minister added.
Adetshina was set to compete in the 2024 Miss South Africa event on Saturday.
In her statement posted to her official Instagram account, the 23 year old expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her during her Miss SA journey.
“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,” read her statement.
Adetshina remains a South African citizen until home affairs can conclusively complete its investigation into her mother’s citizenship status and even if any fraud is proven, revoking her identity number would require an extensive legal process.
Meanwhile Sport, arts and culture minister and PA leader Gayton McKenzie said he feels vindicated after the home affairs probe.
“Our next step is to find the South African mother [whose identity was allegedly stolen]. Let’s blow open this whole racket and arrest/s should follow. I thank all patriotic South Africans who stood by me when I was called all sorts of names. Words fail to adequately describe my gratitude.”
“We are meeting the owners [of Miss SA on Thursday],” he said.
DJ Sbu, real name Sbusiso Leope, has apologised for offending anyone while rallying behind Adetshina because her eligibility to represent the country was questioned as she was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father.