Grammy-winning South African singer Tyla has spoken out against the bullying of Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, a Miss South Africa finalist who recently withdrew from the competition following scrutiny over her nationality.
Adetshina, a model of Nigerian and Mozambican heritage, became the center of a nationality controversy in July after qualifying for the round of 16 in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant. Despite being a Top 11 finalist, she pulled out of the contest after the South African Department of Home Affairs alleged that her mother may have committed fraud and identity theft.
Reacting to the situation, Tyla expressed her disappointment over the harsh treatment Adetshina faced. She insisted that the model was bullied out of the competition. Sharing a report of Adetshina’s withdrawal via X, Tyla wrote, “Disappointed that this happened to her, but wish you all the best girl. Kill it!”
“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 added.
Meanwhile, Miss Universe Nigeria has extended an invitation to Chidimma Adetshina to join their contest. However, she has yet to respond to the invite.