Chidimma Adetshina Says She Is Being Unfairly Targeted as South Africa Court Delays Deportation Case

Former Miss South Africa contestant and Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 winner, Chidimma Adetshina, has spoken out after a South African court postponed her legal challenge against her possible detention and deportation, saying she believes she has been unfairly targeted.

The beauty queen addressed journalists on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, shortly after proceedings at the Cape Town Regional Court, where her case was adjourned. She insisted she was born in South Africa and said she would continue to seek justice through the country's legal system.

Chidimma Reaffirms Confidence

Speaking after the court session, Adetshina expressed gratitude that the matter remains before the courts, saying she still believes in South Africa's judicial process.

She maintained that her legal team had followed every lawful procedure to determine her immigration status and citizenship, adding that she would continue to respect every stage of the legal process.

According to her, despite the challenges she has faced, she has no intention of responding with anger.

Claims of Unfair Treatment

Adetshina argued that she has been singled out throughout the controversy surrounding her citizenship.

She said she believes there has been a deliberate attempt to make her an example, while stressing that her case should be resolved based on the law rather than public opinion.

The former beauty queen also warned against allowing xenophobia and misinformation to influence how individuals are treated, calling on South Africans to uphold the country's constitutional values.

Referring to the principle of Ubuntu, she urged citizens to embrace fairness, humanity and respect while her legal battle continues.

Court Declines to Confirm Detention

The Cape Town Regional Court ruled that it could not make a determination on confirming her detention while the substantive matter remains before the Western Cape High Court.

As a result, the proceedings have been postponed, with the next hearing now scheduled for February 2027.

The case continues to attract public attention in both South Africa and Nigeria, with many closely watching the outcome because of its legal and social implications.