Hilda Baci’s Jollof Record Sparks Controversy: Gehgeh Says Feat Exposes Nigeria’s Hunger

Nigerian social commentator Gehgeh has stirred intense debate with his controversial remarks on celebrity chef Hilda Baci’s recent record-breaking attempt at cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice. While millions of Nigerians hailed the event as a celebration of culture and resilience, Gehgeh took a critical stance, claiming that the spectacle exposed Nigeria as a “poor and hungry country” rather than projecting strength or progress.

Hilda Baci, who first captured international attention in 2023 by setting the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, once again became the center of attention when she cooked an enormous six-meter-wide pot of jollof rice in Lagos. The event, held at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, attracted massive crowds of supporters, food lovers, and curious onlookers. It was widely celebrated as a moment of pride for Nigeria, spotlighting one of the nation’s most beloved dishes and reaffirming its culinary influence in West Africa.

However, Gehgeh viewed the event from a different perspective. In his public comments, he argued that the massive turnout of people eager to get a taste of the jollof rice revealed deeper issues within the country.

“Hilda Baci’s biggest pot of jollof rice just exposed Nigeria as a poor and hungry country. Instead of celebrating, we should reflect on why so many people are desperate for food in the first place,” Gehgeh said.

His statement quickly spread across social media platforms, igniting heated discussions. Many Nigerians expressed anger, accusing him of downplaying Baci’s achievement and using a cultural celebration to make an overly political statement. To them, the event was a moment of unity and joy, not a reminder of hardship. Supporters of Baci pointed out that food is an integral part of Nigerian culture, and events like hers not only showcase creativity but also boost tourism, inspire young people, and generate global interest in Nigerian cuisine.

On the other hand, some Nigerians agreed with Gehgeh, acknowledging that his remarks carried a painful truth. They noted that the desperation of large crowds to get free food indeed reflects the tough economic realities many citizens face. With food inflation at record highs and purchasing power dwindling, they argued, the images of thousands lining up for plates of jollof could reinforce stereotypes of poverty to an international audience.

This division of opinion reflects a broader national conversation about how Nigeria presents itself to the world. For some, Hilda’s feat is an important soft power tool — a way of promoting culture, heritage, and pride on the global stage. For others, such spectacles risk being overshadowed by the everyday struggles of ordinary Nigerians who are grappling with economic hardship, unemployment, and rising food insecurity.

Beyond the criticism, Gehgeh’s remarks have also raised questions about the intersection of entertainment, culture, and politics in Nigeria. In a country where national morale often swings between despair and celebration, public figures like Hilda Baci are sometimes placed at the center of debates that extend beyond their intentions. Her effort to break a record and celebrate Nigerian cuisine, for example, has now become part of a wider discussion about hunger, poverty, and the role of government in addressing them.

Observers note that this is not the first time a cultural achievement has been politicized in Nigeria. Given the country’s economic challenges, major public events often spark both celebration and criticism. Some believe that rather than seeing these moments as contradictions, Nigerians could embrace them as opportunities to reflect: on one hand, to celebrate creativity and resilience, and on the other, to confront the pressing issues that continue to affect daily life.

Despite the controversy, one fact remains clear: Hilda Baci’s attempt has succeeded in drawing massive attention — both nationally and internationally. Whether celebrated or criticized, the feat has once again put Nigeria in global conversations, underscoring the power of food and culture to spark dialogue.

For many, the debate surrounding Gehgeh’s comments is a reminder that Nigeria’s story is complex, layered with both triumphs and struggles. While the largest pot of jollof rice may symbolize unity and cultural pride, it also inadvertently highlights the realities of a country still striving for economic stability.

In the end, Hilda Baci’s achievement continues to resonate differently across the nation. To some, it is an undeniable victory for Nigerian culture and a source of joy during difficult times. To others, it is a mirror reflecting the urgent need for solutions to hunger and poverty. What cannot be disputed, however, is that her culinary feats — whether celebrated or critiqued — have sparked conversations that extend far beyond the kitchen, touching on identity, pride, and the future of Nigeria itself.

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