‘I was unfairly treated, targeted in South Africa’ — Chidimma Adetshina

Former Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 winner Chidimma Adetshina has said she was unfairly treated and targeted in South Africa, insisting that status and citizenship should determine how people are treated.

Adetshina made the remarks while reflecting on the controversy surrounding her citizenship and the legal processes she has faced in South Africa.

“I believe that I have been treated unfairly and targeted, and there has been an attempt to make me an example,” she said.

She urged people not to allow anger, xenophobia or misinformation to influence how individuals are treated, stressing that South Africa is governed by the rule of law.

“But my message is not for you to be one out of anger. South Africa is governed by the rule of law, and we should not allow xenophobia and misinformation to determine how people are going to be treated,” she said.

Adetshina also called for people to be guided by the spirit of Ubuntu, an African philosophy centred on humanity, compassion and shared community.

“Throughout this ordeal, I have availed myself of all appropriate legal recourse, and I'll continue to respect and abide by each process,” she added.

She concluded by thanking her family, friends, supporters and legal representatives for standing by her throughout the controversy.

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, supporters, and my legal representatives for their unwavering support and commitment to my case. Thank you,” she said.