Nollywood star Jumoke Odetola has risen in defence of celebrity chef Hilda Baci, after waves of criticism trailed the chef’s latest record-setting cook-off in Lagos.
Hilda, who made global headlines two years ago with her marathon cooking record, returned to the spotlight at Eko Hotel and Suites where she prepared what has been described as the largest pot of Jollof rice ever cooked.
The high-profile event drew an impressive lineup of supporters, including Funke Akindele, media personality Enioluwa, lifestyle influencer Tomike, Pastor Idowu, and Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State governor.
While the occasion attracted widespread praise and celebration, a section of online users mocked the effort, questioning the significance of the record and even dismissing the taste of the food with the now-viral phrase: “Jollof no sweet.”
Addressing the backlash in a strongly worded Instagram post, Odetola described the negativity as “heartbreaking,” lamenting that critics seemed more focused on tearing down achievements than celebrating them.
“The Jollof Rice no sweet. I have been angry since yesterday, and if I don’t express my thoughts, I won’t be fine. It is heartbreaking when negativity overshadows greatness,” she wrote.
The actress revealed that her timeline had been flooded with mocking posts and banter questioning whether cooking could be considered an achievement at all. She challenged Nigerians to rethink their mindset, stressing that dreaming big and bringing it to life requires mental, psychological, emotional, and financial strength.
She further urged critics to self-reflect on the root of their bitterness, asking them to confront why the success of a woman striving to make her mark triggered so much hostility.
“Now ask yourself, slowly but honestly: WHY AM I TRIGGERED BY THE SUCCESS OF A WOMAN TRYING TO MAKE A MARK IN HER FIELD? Sit with that question,” she noted.
In closing, Odetola prayed for healing and peace for those harbouring resentment, wishing that critics would find freedom from past pains, bitterness, and toxicity.
Her post has since sparked another round of conversations online, with many applauding her for boldly defending Hilda Baci and calling out the culture of unnecessary criticism.
