Chidinma Vanessa Adetshina, a South African pageant contestant born to a Nigerian father, has withdrawn from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition following intense scrutiny and preliminary investigations by the Department of Home Affairs.
The investigation revealed potential fraud and identity theft concerning her citizenship.
The Department of Home Affairs launched an inquiry into Adetshina’s citizenship after a wave of controversy erupted online, leading to widespread speculation and debate. According to a media release circulating on social media, the investigation has cast a shadow over her eligibility.
In a heartfelt statement, Adetshina expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout her pageant journey and announced her decision to step down from the competition.
“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,” Adetshina stated.
“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 the best for the remainder of the competition. Whoever wears the crown represents us all.”