Chimaobi Augustine Azubuike, hailing from Imo State, emerged as the unexpected victor in the Opobo Marathon, outpacing more established runners and clinching the coveted N500,000 prize money.
The spotlight before the race had been on runners from Plateau State, known for their dominance in long-distance races, but Azubuike, in only his second appearance at the event, demonstrated a profound understanding of the course to secure the top spot.
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Azubuike’s remarkable feat left Yusuf Babije from Plateau State in the second position, earning him recognition and a prize of N200,000.
Eric Constance secured the third position, claiming the N100,000 prize. The women’s category witnessed Blessing Bulus from Plateau State seizing the first position and the N500,000 prize money.
Charity Agofure from Delta State secured the second position, winning N200,000, while Saibu Yetunde from Ogun State clinched the third position, earning N100,000.
In special categories, Jaja Tamuno claimed the first position in the indigenous category, and the youngest participant, 15-year-old Queen Nwidah, finished the marathon and pocketed N50,000.
Expressing his surprise at the victory, Azubuike credited his success to his familiarity with Opobo, citing childhood readings about the town as his inspiration to participate.
The Amanyanabo of Opobo, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who actively participated in the leisure category, commended the high level of competition and the diverse representation of athletes from various states.
Opobo marathon’s Team Lead, Iyowuna Cookey, expressed gratitude to supporters, including Platform Petroleum Limited, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), D’Consiglories Nig Limited, and Opu ALABO Foundation, as well as athletes and dignitaries, for their instrumental roles in ensuring the success of the marathon.
Prominent figures in attendance included Enyiada Cookey-Gam, Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Council; Austin Opara, Former Deputy Speaker of Federal House of Representatives; Adokiye Tombomieye, former NNPC Executive Vice President Upstream Sector;
Senibo Sody Peterside; Blessing Fubara, CEO D’Consiglories Nig. Limited; Alabo Chris Finebone, former Commissioner for Information, Rivers State; Emma Okah; Prof Iyalla Peterside, and retired Super Eagles goalkeeper, Bishop Idah Peterside.
