Tensions have flared again between South Africans and Nigerians after Chidimma Adetshina clinched the first runner-up spot at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City.

Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, emerged as the winner in a tightly contested finale.

Adetshina’s journey has been marked by controversy. Born to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, and raised in Soweto, she faced xenophobic backlash during the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant, with critics questioning her eligibility due to her father’s nationality.

The ensuing uproar led to an investigation by South Africa’s Home Affairs, which cast doubts on her citizenship.

Now representing Nigeria, her global success has reignited debates.

While some South Africans claim her as one of their own, many Nigerians reject this, pointing to her treatment in South Africa as evidence of her rejection there.

On social media platform, X, a South African blogger, @missuniverseza tweeted, “Congratulations to our golden girl Chidimma Adetshina for placing 1st runner up. You stood tall & brought pride to all of Africa.

“South Africa and Nigeria we can all be proud. It’s a rare occasion when a black African reaches these heights.”

Reacting, @steveabbey_ wrote, “Which one be South Africa own for inside this one again? Make una get out.”

@skillzxtimi exclaimed, “They are claiming our gal!”

@cheekay_ wrote: “Haibo!!! She’s Nigerian not South African. Comot body jor”

A South African user with the username @lolobee052 protested, “You are crazy this fraudster is not SAn , uya Sangana yini?”

@Inenekazi1 said, “Dakiwe golden girl njani when her mother stole someone’s identity? Njani when she fled the country to abscond from justice? Tsek man.”

@Nkosi_Shebi wrote: You don’t speak for the majority of South Africans. This fraud is South African, never was and never will be.