Miss Universe Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina is facing a new legal battle in South Africa after authorities allegedly found her living in Cape Town without legal immigration status, putting her at risk of deportation. The model, who has been under scrutiny since her participation in the Miss South Africa pageant in 2024, was reportedly arrested in Summer Greens but later released on warning. She appeared before the Cape Town Regional Court on June 9 over her alleged unlawful stay in the country.
Background of the Case
Adetshina's troubles began when questions were raised about her South African citizenship during the 2024 Miss South Africa competition. Since then, both she and her mother have faced intense scrutiny. According to reports, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is pursuing her deportation, with her next court appearance scheduled for July.
Alleged Illegal Stay Details
Officials from the DHA's central law enforcement office traced Adetshina's whereabouts and allegedly found that she and her minor son were living in South Africa without legal immigration status. She was interviewed to verify her status, and the DHA's residency system reportedly indicated she does not have lawful residence. Authorities subsequently declared her an illegal foreigner.
Immigration Officer's Testimony
South African immigration officer Adrian Jackson told the court he was familiar with Adetshina's case following the 2024 controversy. He asked the court to confirm her as an illegal foreigner and order her detention pending deportation, stating that the DHA must carry out its mandate of removing illegal foreign nationals from South Africa.
Previous Interactions with DHA
Earlier, Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber dismissed Adetshina's application seeking a review of the department's refusal to grant her and her son a letter of good cause. According to reports, Adetshina was informed in September 2024 that the department intended to cancel her and her son's South African identity documents, but she did not respond. Schreiber also alleged that Adetshina obtained a Nigerian passport before applying for a South African visitor's visa, which was reportedly refused. He further claimed she later entered South Africa through the Lebombo border post from Mozambique while presenting herself as a South African citizen, and that her application for a letter of good cause was unsuccessful.
Public and Media Reaction
The case has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many expressing solidarity with Adetshina while others call for adherence to immigration laws. The model, who was the first runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant, has not publicly commented on the latest developments.
