A Miss South Africa contestant, whose Nigerian heritage sparked a national controversy and led to a government investigation, has withdrawn from the beauty pageant.
Chidimma Adetshina announced on Thursday that she would not be participating in Saturday’s final, following accusations of fraud and identity theft against her mother by the Home Affairs ministry.
“After much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition for the safety and wellbeing of my family and me,” Adetshina, 23, shared on Instagram.
Adetshina, a law student, has faced intense xenophobic attacks on social media since being named a finalist in July, with many—including cabinet ministers—questioning her eligibility due to her Nigerian descent.
Adetshina had previously told local media that she was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent.
The controversy prompted an investigation into her citizenship following a request from the pageant’s organizers.
On Wednesday, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber stated that the investigation had uncovered “prima facie indications” that Adetshina’s mother might have committed fraud and stolen the identity of a South African woman.
The ministry said it was seeking legal advice on the implications of this on Adetshina’s citizenship, as she was an infant at the time of the alleged fraud.
South Africa grants citizenship by birth to anyone born in the country after 1995 to a South African parent or permanent resident.
Adetshina’s participation in the pageant fueled anti-foreigner sentiment in the country, which has a history of violent, and sometimes deadly, attacks on immigrants.
The controversy drew widespread attention, with politicians, celebrities, and citizens weighing in. While many supported Adetshina, others argued she should be disqualified.
In announcing her decision to step down, Adetshina expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her Miss South Africa journey.
“I am truly thankful for all the love and support I have received,” she wrote.