“Learn to Shut Up, It Was About Love and Support” – Opeyemi Famakin Drags GehGeh Over Comments on Nigerians at Hilda Baci’s Jollof Record Attempt

Popular Nigerian food critic Opeyemi Famakin has publicly slammed social media commentator GehGeh following her controversial remarks about Nigerians who attended Hilda Baci’s ongoing Guinness World Record attempt for the largest pot of Jollof rice. The heated exchange, which has since set social media ablaze, began when GehGeh insinuated that the massive turnout at the Lagos venue was not truly about patriotism, culinary appreciation, or support for the celebrity chef, but rather a reflection of poverty and hunger in the country. According to GehGeh, many Nigerians flocked to the event simply because of the prospect of free food, and not necessarily to celebrate or show solidarity with Hilda’s historic attempt.

Her statement immediately struck a nerve among fans, food lovers, and even celebrities, with many branding it as insensitive and dismissive of the collective spirit of Nigerians. One of the loudest voices of disapproval came from Opeyemi Famakin, who wasted no time in firing back. In a direct response that has since gone viral, Famakin told GehGeh to “learn to shut up,” stressing that the turnout had nothing to do with poverty but everything to do with love, support, and national pride. He went further to explain that Nigerians came together not just to witness history being made but also to stand behind a woman who has become a symbol of resilience, hard work, and excellence in showcasing Nigerian cuisine to the world.

Famakin’s choice of words, though harsh, resonated with many Nigerians who felt that GehGeh’s comments were unnecessarily reductive and failed to capture the deeper significance of the event. Social media platforms have since been flooded with videos, pictures, and testimonials from attendees, most of whom insist that the atmosphere at the venue was filled with excitement, joy, and camaraderie. According to them, being there was less about food and more about being part of something monumental that placed Nigeria and Jollof rice on the global map.

Hilda Baci, who had previously broken the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, has once again captured national and international attention with her ambitious challenge of preparing the largest pot of Nigerian-style Jollof rice. The event, which brought together thousands of people from across Lagos and beyond, saw music, dance, culture, and food blend into an electrifying celebration of Nigerian identity. For many, it was more than just cooking—it was a unifying moment in a country often divided along political, ethnic, and social lines. To reduce such a gathering to mere hunger, critics argue, was unfair and dismissive of the positive energy Nigerians chose to express.

Supporters of Opeyemi Famakin’s clapback have pointed out that while poverty is indeed a reality in Nigeria, it should not always be used as the lens to view every collective action. They argue that events like Hilda’s record-breaking attempts are rare opportunities for Nigerians to showcase talent, culture, and unity to the rest of the world, and such moments deserve celebration without being overshadowed by cynicism. One attendee was quoted saying, “We came here because we love Hilda, and we are proud of what she represents. Yes, there is food, but there is also music, culture, and history being made. That’s why we are here.”

Others have also called out GehGeh for what they describe as a pattern of controversial takes designed to stir attention online. To them, her remarks were less about genuine observation and more about creating shock value to trend. Famakin, who has built his reputation as Nigeria’s most prominent food critic, reminded her that while criticism is valid, it must also respect the emotional weight and symbolism attached to certain events. “This is bigger than you, bigger than me, and bigger than food,” he stated. “It’s about Nigerians standing behind one of their own and proving that when we want to support, we support fully. If you can’t understand that, then maybe silence is the best option.”

Since Famakin’s rebuke, the debate has intensified across social media, with Nigerians split between agreeing with him and sympathizing with GehGeh’s perspective. Some argue that GehGeh was simply highlighting an uncomfortable truth about hunger and hardship, while others maintain that such commentary was misplaced and unnecessary during a moment of celebration. Regardless of the divide, the incident has further amplified discussions about how Nigerians perceive unity, patriotism, and national pride in the face of economic realities.

Interestingly, Hilda Baci herself has not directly addressed the controversy. Instead, she has continued to focus on the record attempt, often thanking fans and supporters through short clips and updates. Her silence on the matter has been interpreted by some as wisdom, allowing the spotlight to remain on her achievement rather than the online drama surrounding it. Meanwhile, celebrities, influencers, and everyday Nigerians have continued to show up at the venue in large numbers, sharing videos of the gigantic pot of Jollof rice and the carnival-like atmosphere.

Observers have noted that this is not the first time Nigerians have been accused of turning national events into feeding opportunities. However, many have countered that food, especially Jollof rice, holds a special cultural significance in Nigeria and West Africa at large. Beyond nourishment, it symbolizes celebration, togetherness, and identity. Therefore, its use in record-breaking events such as this carries far more weight than the simplistic idea of filling hungry stomachs. Famakin’s statement, “It was about love and support,” captures this sentiment in a way that many Nigerians found affirming and accurate.

As the Guinness World Records body continues to monitor Hilda Baci’s attempt, the incident between Opeyemi Famakin and GehGeh has reminded Nigerians of the importance of narrative. How events are framed in the public space can either uplift or diminish their value. While GehGeh’s remark attempted to taint the perception of the event, Famakin’s counter-response has repositioned it as a moment of collective pride and support for a Nigerian making history on the global stage.

The story is still unfolding, and as Hilda awaits confirmation from Guinness World Records, the focus remains on her achievement, resilience, and the overwhelming show of support she has received from Nigerians. Whether online or physically at the venue, the message has been clear: Nigerians are willing to rally behind their own, and no amount of negativity can diminish the pride they feel in witnessing one of their own break barriers. Opeyemi Famakin’s clapback to GehGeh may have been blunt, but for many, it was necessary to remind critics that not every act of unity and celebration should be reduced to poverty. Sometimes, it really is about love, support, and pride in being Nigerian.