A petition by a South African organization, Progressive Forces of South Africa, is demanding the disqualification of Chidimma Adetshina from the upcoming Miss Universe 2024 pageant, where she is set to represent Nigeria.
According to the group’s claim on October 30, 2024, Chidimma and her mother are under investigation by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs for alleged identity theft. As of now, the petition has gathered 954 out of a targeted 1,000 signatures, with signatories expressing concern over what they view as “non-compliant” diplomatic privileges granted to Chidimma by the Nigerian government.
Background on the Citizenship Dispute
This controversy has its roots in Chidimma’s contested South African citizenship. On October 29, 2024, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs announced that both Chidimma and her mother could lose their South African citizenship unless they provided proof of their legal citizenship by a specified deadline. Just days later, this petition surfaced, intensifying scrutiny and adding a new layer of complexity to Chidimma’s journey.
The Miss South Africa Controversy
The controversy began when Chidimma entered the Miss South Africa pageant, where her nationality and past marriage were called into question. Although she is a naturalized South African, critics argued she should be disqualified due to her Nigerian and Mozambican heritage. Adding to the complications, critics cited a resurfaced wedding video showing her as previously married, which typically disqualifies contestants in the Miss South Africa competition. Despite the governing body’s initial support of her candidacy, public outcry eventually forced her to withdraw.
This turmoil set off a deeper investigation into her mother’s South African naturalization status, with accusations that her citizenship may have been acquired through false documentation.
A Second Chance with Miss Nigeria
In the midst of the backlash, Chidimma found new opportunities. Miss Nigeria’s organizers invited her to participate in the Nigerian national pageant, where she represented Taraba and emerged victorious. This win secured her spot to represent Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024, which will take place in Mexico, with the grand finale scheduled for November 16, 2024.
A Journey of Resilience
Despite the obstacles, Chidimma’s journey shows her resilience and determination. Within three months, she went from being a Miss South Africa dropout to Miss Universe Nigeria and is now a prominent contender in Miss Universe. Her story has attracted public attention, with her Instagram page offering regular updates on her preparations and experiences in Mexico.
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