Samson Ajao, a former student of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Osun State, has captured the attention of friends and supporters as he accomplished a remarkable feat: setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud. Celebrations erupted in the streets of Osogbo as Ajao completed an astounding 215 hours of continuous reading, surpassing the previous record.
The jubilant convoy, accompanied by Ajao and his supporters, paraded through Gbongan/Osogbo road and Odi-Olowo Street in Osogbo to mark the historic achievement.
Ajao embarked on his read-a-thon journey on Monday, May 6, in Osogbo, Osun State, with the ambitious goal of surpassing the current Guinness World Record holder, Rybai Isakov, who had held the record of 124 hours of marathon reading aloud.
From the outset of the challenge, Ajao received visits from numerous notable personalities and government officials from Osun State, demonstrating their solidarity and support.
Notable dignitaries, including 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, paid visits to Ajao during his marathon reading session.
Reflecting on his accomplishment in an interview with PUNCH Online after completing the read-a-thon, Ajao revealed that he had delved into approximately 100 books over the course of 10 days. He expressed his satisfaction and emphasized the importance of cultivating a strong reading culture.
“I am fulfilled because I aimed to inspire people to return to the library and revive the reading culture within society, and it has been an enriching experience,” Ajao remarked. “We witnessed individuals, especially students, flocking to the venue of the program, bringing books and joining in the celebration. I believe I have instilled inspiration in people, and it will have a lasting impact. I read about 100 books over 10 days, totaling 215 hours.”
Ajao disclosed that the records of his monumental challenge have been submitted to the management of Guinness World Records for official verification, marking a potential entry into the annals of literary history.
