The Miss South Africa 2024 pageant has ignited a heated debate between South Africans and Nigerians in recent days, following the withdrawal of a finalist of Nigerian descent, Chidimma Adetshina.

Adetshina, 23, born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, stepped back from the competition amid accusations that her mother was involved in fraud and identity theft. The controversy intensified when the South African Home Affairs Ministry launched an investigation, uncovering possible identity theft by Adetshina’s mother. Adetshina’s decision to withdraw was made for the safety and well-being of her family, as she announced on Instagram.

Her withdrawal sparked a firestorm of reactions on social media, with South Africans voicing strong opinions about her Nigerian heritage and the circumstances surrounding her exit. South African singer Tyla criticized the treatment of Adetshina, saying, “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.”

However, Tyla’s comments drew backlash from some South African users on X (formerly Twitter). One user, ChrisExcel, responded, “We supported you when Nigerians bullied you… And this is how you thank us. One Grammy award and you already think that your voice matters.” Others accused Tyla of defending criminality, with user Master commenting, “She wasn’t bullied. She was about to benefit from crime.”

The controversy continued as Mia Le Roux, a descendant of Dutch settlers and the first deaf woman to win the title, was crowned Miss South Africa 2024 on Saturday. Le Roux’s victory was met with mixed reactions, with some celebrating her achievement and others viewing it as a reflection of ongoing racial tensions in South Africa.

Nigerian artist Burna Boy also weighed in, mocking the outcome on his X account with a photo of Le Roux and a laughing emoji. His comment highlighted the racial undertones of the pageant and referenced the earlier attacks on Adetshina.

The debate has continued on social media, with many Nigerians expressing disbelief at Le Roux’s victory. User Nwafresh posted, “Is that not a colonial master’s daughter? Mandela must be shaking right now,” while David Hundeyin commented, “I can see her credit score all the way from Ikeja.”

Conversely, some users supported Le Roux’s win, with MA LE BO stating, “Miss South Africa is really big on inclusivity. You have my respect. Congratulations Mia. You’re a living proof anyone can do it.” Damilare Odulesi questioned whether South Africans prefer white winners over their fellow black Africans, and Safiyanu highlighted perceived prejudices against black Africans.

As the debate rages on, it underscores the complexities of race, identity, and nationalism within the context of international beauty pageants and beyond.