A South African advocacy group, Progressive Forces, has initiated a petition to disqualify Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, from the upcoming international Miss Universe pageant.
The group’s actions follow allegations of identity fraud involving Miss Adetshina and her Mozambican-born mother, which they argue could impact her eligibility.
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs announced on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, that it plans to revoke both Miss Adetshina and her mother’s South African identity and travel documents, citing a lack of evidence to substantiate their legal status in the country.
Despite these developments, Miss Adetshina travelled to Mexico the next day on a Nigerian passport to prepare for the November pageant, representing Nigeria.
On Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Progressive Forces launched a petition that quickly gained traction, gathering more than 500 signatures within 24 hours.
In a formal appeal to the Miss Universe organisation, the group urged a reconsideration of Miss Adetshina’s participation.
The group cited concerns about the pageant’s integrity and reputation.
“As Progressive Forces of South Africa, we are writing on behalf of everyone who stands for justice to urge the Miss Universe organisation to reconsider the contestant Miss Universe Nigeria and, if possible, cancel her entry,” the petition reads.
The Progressive Forces underscored the Miss Universe brand as a symbol of “class, integrity, and fair competition,” cautioning that allowing Miss Adetshina to compete could damage the pageant’s reputation and potentially bring disrepute to both Nigeria and Africa.
Miss Adetshina is no stranger to controversy, having faced similar opposition during her time in the Miss South Africa pageant, where public pressure and petitions eventually led to her withdrawal.
She later chose to represent her father’s homeland, Nigeria and went on to win the title of Miss Universe Nigeria.
With the Miss Universe pageant on the horizon, it remains uncertain how the organisation will respond to the Progressive Forces’ request.
Miss Adetshina’s path to the international stage continues to draw both support and scrutiny.
