The Department of Home Affairs in South Africa has announced plans to file criminal charges against Chidinma Adetshina, the current Miss Universe Nigeria, and her mother for alleged identity fraud.
This decision follows their failure to provide adequate explanations for their South African identity documents, according to officials.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s identity arose when she participated in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant. After a public outcry, she withdrew from the competition, but scrutiny over her documentation continued.
In a parliamentary briefing on Tuesday, October 29, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Njabulo Nzuza outlined the department’s response, noting that Adetshina and her mother had disregarded requests to clarify their documentation.
The case has now been referred to the Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
“We conducted our investigations and followed due process, giving her an opportunity to respond, which she did not take,” Deputy Minister Nzuza stated.
The department confirmed that a formal letter was sent to Adetshina and her mother, requesting an explanation for why their identity and travel documents should not be revoked. With the deadline passing on Monday, Home Affairs Director-General Livhuwani Tommy Makhode announced that the documents would now be canceled.
Adding an international aspect to the case, Deputy Minister Nzuza revealed that Interpol is working with South Africa to address potential international dimensions of the alleged identity fraud.
Despite these legal challenges in South Africa, Adetshina is set to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe finale in Mexico City next month after winning the Miss Universe Nigeria title.
