By Rorisang Modiba
Chidimma Adetshina, who had to withdraw from the Miss South Africa competition due to a dispute over her identity, has spoken about her emotional difficulties after pulling out of the pageant.
In an interview with Nigerian radio station Cool FM, Chidimma talked about how the row surrounding her contested citizenship had severely affected her.
She spoke about the challenges she faced, including online bullying and claims that she wasn’t qualified to compete in the competition.
“It’s been a long and hard journey. There were times when I would cry myself to sleep and wonder, ‘Why me? I just want this to end,’” she said.
Her withdrawal followed legal action by the Patriotic Alliance, led by Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, which sought to block her participation.
The Department of Home Affairs announced an investigation into her citizenship, uncovering potential fraud linked to her mother, who is suspected of identity theft.
After withdrawing, Chidimma reportedly attempted suicide, with news of the incident spreading on social media.
The 23-year-old was invited by the Miss Universe Nigeria competition organisers to “represent your father’s native land” following her withdrawal from Miss South Africa.
Last week, Chidimma took the lead in the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, reaching 12,014 votes. Voting closes on 30 August.
Pictured above: Chidimma Adetshina.
Source: Instagram
