Former Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, has once again stirred controversy in West Africa after making claims about the origin of the much-debated dish, jollof rice. According to Mohammed, the beloved rice dish did not originate in Nigeria or Ghana, but rather in Senegal, and was historically served to prisoners, a statement that has reignited debates among culinary enthusiasts and nationalists alike.
In a recent television interview, Mohammed explained the historical context of the dish, tracing the term “jollof” to “Wollof,” a word associated with the Wolof people of Senegal. He stressed that many people are unaware of the dish’s true roots and the circumstances under which it was initially consumed.
Lai Mohammed explains jollof rice origin
He elaborated, “Jollof rice was actually that food that was prepared for prisoners, ‘cos it was that food that was put in one plate, oil, salt, you know, and everything. So really everything of jollof is Wollof.” He added that while the dish is now celebrated across West Africa and has become a cultural icon, its origins were humble and functional, tied to the prison system in Senegal rather than luxury or festive meals.
Mohammed further stated that tourism authorities, as well as references on Wikipedia supported by UN-related sources, confirm the Senegalese origins of jollof rice. He highlighted that despite its widespread popularity today, the historical background is often overlooked, with national pride and rivalry overshadowing historical facts.
The minister’s comments sparked heated discussions online, revealing how passionate people are about culinary heritage and national identity, particularly around a dish that has become a symbol of pride and rivalry across West African nations. His statements have prompted discussions about education, cultural preservation, and the importance of understanding the historical origins of popular dishes beyond nationalistic claims.
Social media reactions
@gent2s commented: “Let’s focus on the origin of Nigeria’s corruption and propaganda-style of democracy. Nothing new here.”
@ellwahabb commented: “Hahaha thief Linus no dey tire o. Always deflecting real issues.”
@Angel150kafor commented: “And they no know the origin of Nigeria backwards. But they want to claim everything.”
@Korayde5 commented: “Liar Mohammed. Just leave the food debates to chefs.”
@zilchanonymous commented: “This is what a stupid adult is discussing on live TV after looting monies with his principal. Seriously, focus on national issues, not food history.”
The video of Mohammed’s statement quickly circulated across platforms, prompting thousands of reactions, shares, and heated comment threads. Users debated whether historical accuracy should outweigh national pride, while others ridiculed the claim and mocked the minister’s focus on culinary origins instead of governance issues.
Watch the video below…
“Jollof rice was actually food that was prepared for prisoners.” -Lai Mohammed.
Tomorrow this lying animal will accuse random helpless Nigerians of de-marketing Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/e0zeHMivQR
— OurFaveOnlineDoc 🇬🇧 🇳🇬 (@OurFavOnlineDoc) December 24, 2025