South African singer Tyla has spoken out in support of former Miss SA Pageant contestant, Chidinma Adetshina, condemning the bullying that Adetshina has faced from South Africans after being the subject of controversy
The controversy surrounding Adetshina, the 23-year-old model of Nigerian and Mozambican heritage who recently withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant, centered on Adetshina’s nationality and gained significant traction on social media after she advanced to the round of 16. This sparked a heated debate about her eligibility to compete in the national beauty contest.
Born in Soweto, South Africa, to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, Chidimma’s participation in the pageant became the subject of intense scrutiny. Many social media users, particularly from South Africa, called for her disqualification, questioning her national identity. In response, the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) launched an investigation into her nationality, which led to further controversy.
On Wednesday, the DHA announced that preliminary evidence suggested Chidimma’s mother may have committed fraud and identity theft, raising further doubts about Chidimma’s eligibility. Following this revelation, Chidimma decided to withdraw from the Miss South Africa competition, citing concerns for the safety of herself and her family.
In a post on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, Tyla, known for her hit song “Water,” expressed her disappointment over the way Chidimma was treated. Although Tyla affirmed her loyalty to South Africa, she condemned the bullying that Chidimma faced, stating, “I will always stand with South Africa. I just feel regardless of the opinions, she was bullied and that’s what I don’t stand for.”
Tyla further expressed her support for Chidimma, despite the controversy, by encouraging her to stay strong and continue pursuing her dreams. “Disappointed that this happened to her, but wish you all the best girl. Kill it!!!!” she wrote.
Tyla’s comments, however, sparked criticism from some South Africans, who accused the Grammy-winning singer of misrepresenting her country. Despite the backlash, Tyla remained firm in her stance against bullying and in her support for Chidimma.
In a surprising turn of events, Miss Universe Nigeria extended an invitation to Chidimma to participate in its 2024 pageant, just a day after she withdrew from the South African competition. This invitation has opened a new chapter for Chidimma, offering her an opportunity to represent her Nigerian heritage on an international stage.
Melissa Enoch
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