The recently crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, has denied claims of identity theft in South Africa.
The 23-year-old during a recent Interview on Arise TV denied any wrongdoing, saying “I didn’t steal anyone’s identity”.
Chidimma, however, declined to elaborate, citing the ongoing investigations and concerns about potential contradictions.
“I did not steal anyone’s identity. Obviously I am still waiting on the conclusion of the whole case and matter, then moving forward, I will know exactly what to say,” she said.
“Because I feel like now if I say something and something comes out tomorrow, it could be like but you said this then something else. I am just avoiding all those two things contradicting one another.”
Speaking on her victory, Chidimma also dismissed insinuations that she won the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant “out of pity”.
She argued that she went through the same rigorous experience as all contestants, adding that “I worked hard to earn my title”.
“A lot of people felt like it was a pity win and I do not think so. I feel like I really worked hard. Coming from the SA journey, we spent 10 weeks in camp,” she said.
“It might have been a slight difference but I feel like, if we have to look at the journey that we have all been through, I feel like I had the same experience that they did.”
The beauty model sparked controversy during this year’s Miss South Africa pageant due to her nationality, which led to her withdrawal from the contest.
She was then invited to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, where she triumphed over 24 other talented contestants to secure the coveted Miss Universe crown.
As the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, Chidimma Adetshina will represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant later this year in Mexico.