The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have denounced the xenophobic assaults targeting Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, a contender for Miss South Africa 2024 with Nigerian roots. The EFF underscored that Adetshina fulfills all the competition’s requirements and lambasted the Afrophobic sentiments driving the backlash. They pointed out the stark contrast in treatment between Adetshina and previous contestants of foreign descent, exposing the underlying hypocrisy and racial bias.

Highlighting historical precedents, the EFF noted that past contestants like Vanessa Carreira, who hails from Portuguese and Angolan lineage, did not endure such harsh scrutiny. This discrepancy, they argue, underscores a lingering Afrophobia rooted in the remnants of apartheid and colonization. The EFF’s statement stresses that these divisive ideologies continue to mar South African society, emphasizing the need for introspection and change.

In the wake of these attacks, Adetshina has received overwhelming support from various public figures, including DJ Prince Kaybee and former Johannesburg mayor Mpho Phalatse. These personalities have vocally condemned the xenophobic incidents and called for a more inclusive understanding of South African identity. Despite the adversity, Adetshina remains resilient, using her platform to foster unity and educate the public on the importance of embracing diversity.

Adetshina views this challenging experience as a chance to promote unity among South Africans. She expressed her belief that the criticism stems from “black-on-black hate,” pointing out that she is not the only contestant with a non-South African surname. Adetshina emphasized that her skin color has unjustly made her a target, reflecting broader societal prejudices she has faced throughout her life. The EFF urges all South Africans to confront their biases, reject colonial-era ideologies, and treat all Miss South Africa finalists with fairness and respect.