Chidimma Adetshina, recently crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, finds herself at the center of a swirling investigation by the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
This investigation is tied to allegations of fraud and identity theft, with her family’s immigration status under scrutiny.
Despite the controversy, Chidimma is preparing to represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe finale in Mexico this November.
Addressing the Allegations
In an interview with Arise News, Chidimma broke her silence regarding the DHA investigation.
She acknowledged the ongoing legal process but stressed that she had nothing to hide.
“I’ve avoided the questions because it’s a legal matter, and I don’t have all the facts,” she explained.
She firmly denied any involvement in identity theft, adding, “I didn’t steal anyone’s identity.
I’m still waiting for the case to be resolved. After that, I’ll know what to say.”
Her father, Michael Adetshina, has been less forthcoming.
During a recent investigative report on eNCA’s Checkpoint, he declined to answer any questions regarding the allegations.
Reflecting on Her Roots
During the same interview, Chidimma took a moment to reflect on her past.
Although she was born in South Africa, she spent part of her early years in Nigeria before returning to South Africa.
“I miss my friends, family, and the lifestyle I had back there,” she shared, expressing the challenges of adapting to her current situation.
Interestingly, she didn’t mention her son from a previous marriage during the conversation.
Chidimma, one of seven siblings, shared that four of her siblings reside in Nigeria, while two others remain in South Africa.
She also emphasized her strong connection to her Nigerian heritage, despite living in South Africa’s Sunnydale, where there’s a thriving Nigerian community.
Miss Universe and Travel Uncertainty
As Chidimma prepares for her journey to Mexico for Miss Universe, questions about her legal status and travel documents loom large.
While she holds both a South African ID and a Nigerian passport, the ongoing DHA investigation could impact her ability to travel.
The DHA is currently reviewing allegations that her parents’ residency or citizenship status might be fraudulent. Should these claims be validated, her South African citizenship could be at risk.
Phelelani Khumalo, Head of Legal Services for the Home Affairs Portfolio Committee, stated that Chidimma’s South African citizenship could be revoked if the DHA finds that her birth registration was fraudulent.
This decision could have far-reaching consequences for her future.
What Lies Ahead?
Despite these legal battles, Miss Universe organizers have clarified that contestants no longer need to be born or reside in the country they represent.
This change offers Chidimma some hope as she continues her journey, but uncertainty remains over how the DHA’s findings could impact her plans.
With the investigation still ongoing, the future remains unclear for this rising star.