South Africans Petition to Bar Chidimma Adetshina from Miss Universe 2024

A South African group, Progressive Forces, has launched a petition to stop Chidimma Adetshina, the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, from competing in the Miss Universe 2024 pageant. This move comes after Adetshina arrived in Mexico to represent Nigeria in the global competition scheduled for November.

The petition, which has garnered over 1,000 signatures in 24 hours, cites concerns about Adetshina’s mother being found guilty of identity fraud. The South Africa Department of Home Affairs had previously cancelled Adetshina and her mother’s identities by court order.

Progressive Forces argues that Adetshina’s participation could compromise the integrity of the Miss Universe brand. Adetshina had faced criticism in South Africa during the Miss South Africa contest and withdrew from the pageant after allegations of fraud and identity theft surfaced. She then accepted an invitation to join the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.

This development has sparked controversy, with many weighing in on the issue. British rapper Skepta recently expressed admiration for Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage, but the focus remains on Adetshina’s eligibility to compete in the Miss Universe pageant.