South African Group Petitions Miss Universe to Disqualify Nigerian Contestant Over Alleged Identity Issues
A South African organization, Progressive Forces of South Africa, has submitted a formal petition to Miss Universe organizers, urging the disqualification of Nigerian representative Chidimma Adetshina from the 2024 pageant in Mexico.
The group’s move is rooted in allegations of identity fraud involving Adetshina and her mother, Anabela Rungo. They assert that Adetshina's mother, a naturalized South African, fraudulently obtained South African identity documents for her daughter, which has sparked a larger debate over eligibility.
The petition, initiated on Change.org by activist Lebogang Shovhote, has quickly gathered nearly 1,000 signatures. The group claims that South African officials recently canceled Adetshina and her mother’s South African identities following an investigation. Progressive Forces argues that allowing Adetshina’s participation could tarnish Miss Universe’s reputation, emphasizing the pageant's commitment to integrity and fair competition.
Adetshina's journey to Miss Universe has been contentious. Initially a contestant in Miss South Africa, she faced backlash over eligibility concerns, prompting her withdrawal. Later, she won Miss Universe Nigeria, securing her place in the international competition.
The Progressive Forces group insists that disqualifying Adetshina would uphold the pageant's ethical standards, citing the potential reputational risk her inclusion might pose to both the Miss Universe brand and broader perceptions of South Africa. The Miss Universe organization has yet to issue a public response regarding the petition.
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