Miss South Africa contestant, Chidimma Adetshina, has withdrawn from the competition, citing concerns for the safety and wellbeing of her family.
Her decision comes in the wake of a heated controversy surrounding her participation, which intensified after her mother was accused of fraud and identity theft by the South African government.
Following her announcement as a finalist in July, Chidimma, 23, became the target of hostile and xenophobic attacks on social media, with her credentials being questioned by many, including government officials.
The controversy prompted the Home Affairs Ministry to investigate her citizenship, uncovering initial indications that her mother may have committed fraud and stolen the identity of a South African woman shortly after Chidimma was born.
In a statement on Instagram, Chidimma Adetshina expressed her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her Miss South Africa journey, but emphasized that her family’s safety must come first.
“With a heavy heart, I have decided to withdraw from the competition to protect the wellbeing of my family and myself,” she wrote. “I leave with immense gratitude for this experience and wish my fellow finalists the best as they continue in the competition.”
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