By Rorisang Modiba
Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina – a Miss South Africa contestant until she withdrew days before the pageant – has taken the lead in the Miss Universe Nigeria competition, reaching 12,014 votes.
The 23-year-old contestant’s participation in the pageant sparked controversy after she was invited by the organisers to “represent your father’s native land” following her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition due to a citizenship dispute.
Chidimma’s popularity is growing. She is closely followed by contestant number 10, Edeifo Aikhuele, with 7,982 votes, and contestant No. 13, Queenth Igbokwe, with 5,086 votes. The competition winner will receive ₦10-million (approximately R115,752).
In a video statement, Adetshina expressed her excitement about competing, thanking the organisers and expressing her enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
She aims to win the title previously held by Ugochi Mitchel Ihezue, the 2017 Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria.
Voting began on 3 August and will continue until 30 August, with contestants striving to gather as much public support as possible.
Chidimma was a Miss South Africa contestant until she withdrew from the competition just two days before the event.
Her withdrawal followed legal action by the Patriotic Alliance, which sought to block her participation.
The Department of Home Affairs had earlier announced an investigation into her citizenship, uncovering potential fraud linked to her mother, who is suspected of identity theft.
After withdrawing, Chidimma reportedly attempted suicide, with news of the incident spreading on social media.
Pictured above: Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina.
Source: Instagram
