Mzansi divided as Tyla defends ex-Miss SA contestant
It’s been a busy weekend on the social media streets with people weighing in on Chidimma Adetshina’s identity crisis, which has trended for weeks.
After it was revealed that the mother of the 23-year-old fraudulently obtained an identity for her, the former Miss South Africa 2024 contestant had to pull out of the competition.
Many celebrities defended Adetshina, including Grammy-award-winning singer Tyla, who stood up for her against the bullying she has suffered since she made it to the top 16.
She said she was disappointed that Adetshina had to pull out of the competition but wished her well.
“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,” said the “Water” hitmaker.
South Africans on social media dragged her for that tweet, saying she had the nerve to stand up against someone who’s a beneficiary of identity theft.
But when Nigerians and Americans were bullying her, she couldn’t stand up for herself.
"It’s funny how Tyla can call South Africans bullies for standing up for their country but failed to notice the bullying she received from black Americans," said @AkanimiltonM.
Another X user, @Paballo_maseko_, said: “She didn’t withdraw because of the ‘bullying’ otherwise she would’ve withdrawn a long time ago.
“Chidimma withdrew because a criminal investigation against her mother for committing identity fraud for the past 23 years was laid by SA Home Affairs!”
Others highlighted that while Tyla sympathised with Adetshina, she ignored the main victim, the person whose identity was stolen.
"For 23 years a South African woman has had to live without an identity but here you are sympathising with criminals? What about the victim, Tyla? Maybe we should let them bully you after all because you do care about other women in this country," said @BIGDADDYVALHALL.
Another X user, @@Awandeeee_2, said: "Tyla baby, we love you neh, so so so much. However, they aren't opinions, they are facts, and crimes were committed. The people we need to feel bad for are that lady whose identity was stolen and her kids. Let's direct the energy to that."
Meanwhile, others defended the multi-award singer, saying as a victim of social media bullying herself, she was compelled to protect someone who suffered a similar fate.
“It's almost like Tyla has been a recipient of bullying because of her identity and she can relate with it first-hand, and you guys are saying she shouldn't call out the bullsh*t? Well, she has my respect for standing for the truth,” said @Blehxxing.
Another X user, @KelinKVE, said: “Anyone and everyone calling Tyla a fraud in words like ‘she is supporting a criminal’ is very stupid. You lot were already bullying Chidimma before the crime of her mother was unravelled.
“At least, own up to your hate with pride and sit quietly at the devil's right hand.”
Following the social media uproar, Tyla released a statement saying those tweets were not her personal views. They were posted by her management.
“These posts were made by my management. As a proud South African, I stand with my fellow citizens, and I believe that the laws of South Africa must be respected. I do not condone or advocate for any criminal activities, including identity theft,” she said.
“It is deeply unfortunate that an innocent mother suffered due to the actions of Chidimma’s parents. I stand with South Africa — my country, my people. Cuz [because] what the heck!!!! Your girl from Joburg, Tyla.”
In other news, Miss Universe Nigeria invited Adetshina to participate in their pageant but Nigerians rejected her, saying she can’t easily get a free pass.
“I’m sorry this is not fair!!! She did not audition. So because you have international drama … you have earned your spot to compete??? Not fair at all,” said @giandasimone.
Another Instagram user, @lizzysnowqueen, said: “Not fair on actual proud Nigerian 🇳🇬 participants who have never tried to manipulate their way to the top of a competition.”
Meanwhile, South Africans said they would support Adetshina if she participated in Miss Universe Nigeria.