By Gbenga Ojikutu
Friends and supporters of ex-student of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Osun State, Samson Ajao, who was attempting to set a new world record for longest marathon reading aloud on Wednesday, was celebrated on the streets of Osogbo after he hit 215 hours to set a new world record.
The convoy that conveyed Ajao and his supporters moved through Gbongan/Osogbo road and Odi-Olowo Street in Osogbo in celebration after he achieved the feat.
Ajao, who started read-a-thon on Monday, May 6, in Osogbo, Osun State aimed to beat the current Guinness World Record holder, Rybai Isakov who held the record of 124 hours of marathon reading aloud.
Shortly after he commenced the challenge, many notable personalities and Osun State Government officials, paid him a solidarity visit.
Among the dignitaries that visited Ajao were the wife of Osun State Governor, Mrs Ngozi Adeleke, the Speaker of Osun House of Assembly, Mr. Adewale Egbedun, and Commissioner for Education, Mr. Dipo Eluwole.
Speaking after completing the read-a-thon, Ajao, who said he read about 100 books in 10 days while the challenge lasted, declared that he felt fulfilled and encouraged people to develop a better attitude to reading.
He said, “I am fulfilled because I aimed to inspire people to go back to the library and bring back the reading culture to the society and it has been interesting.
“We have seen people, especially students coming around bringing books to the venue of the programme and they were happy to celebrate with us. I believe that I have inspired people and it would go a long way. I read about 100 books over 10 days for a total of 215 hours.”
He said records of the challenge have been submitted to the management of Guinness World Records for verification.
THE PUNCH
