Nigerian union condemns assault on Chidimma Adetshina in S’Africa

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has strongly condemned the verbal assault and anti-migrant slurs directed at former Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, outside the Cape Town Regional Court. Adetshina, 25, appeared in court earlier this week concerning allegations of illegal residency in South Africa. Her case was adjourned until August 19, with judgment reserved on her detention pending deportation.

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Go home. Nigeria is your home. Nigeria is your home. We won’t accept you in South Africa.

Following her court appearance, an individual allegedly shouted at Adetshina, "Go home. Nigeria is your home. Nigeria is your home. We won’t accept you in South Africa." NUSA's National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, responded on Friday, stating that Adetshina's case is still under legal review and she should not be subjected to intimidation.

"NUSA rejects and condemns the hostile slurs, verbal abuse, and targeted heckling directed at Chidimma Adetshina outside the Cape Town court," Olunloyo said. He emphasized that the legal system must be allowed to determine her immigration status without interference or intimidation. NUSA also urged citizens of both South Africa and Nigeria to uphold peace and refrain from escalating tensions or anti-immigration sentiments.

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NUSA rejects and condemns the hostile slurs, verbal abuse, and targeted heckling directed at Chidimma Adetshina outside the Cape Town court.

Reports indicate that South Africa's Department of Home Affairs argued Adetshina lacked the necessary immigration documents to remain in the country and should be detained pending deportation. Prosecutors also alleged she held a South African passport while maintaining Nigerian citizenship. Her legal team, however, rejected these claims, asserting she was born in South Africa and has minimal ties to Nigeria. The department also alleged she obtained Nigerian passports for herself and her child in Lagos before securing a South African visa and re-entering the country via Mozambique.

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We use this opportunity to stress that the matter is before the courts and everyone must allow the legal system to determine her immigration status without interference or intimidation.