The Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has called on the Sapele Local Government Council to continue its annual marathon and endurance walk, emphasizing the importance of regular physical exercise in promoting good health and fostering meaningful development within the community.
Dafinone made this appeal during his participation in the second edition of the Sapele Marathon and Endurance Walk, which was themed “A Walk for Sheriff” and “A Walk for Bright Abeke.”
The senator took the lead in the endurance walk, which began at the Sapele Stadium, and he expressed his hope that this initiative would evolve into more than just an annual event. He encouraged residents to incorporate regular exercise into their daily routines, highlighting that such practices are vital for maintaining good health. “I want to congratulate the council chairman for this second edition of Walk for Life. It is symbolic for good health,” Dafinone stated, underscoring the connection between health and prosperity.
Dafinone further articulated that the success of the marathon should inspire more individuals to adopt a lifestyle centered around physical activity. He urged the people to view exercise not merely as an annual obligation but as a weekly and daily commitment to health. “This second edition, I pray it should continue on an annual basis, and more people will be encouraged to embrace the life of exercise,” he added, emphasizing the ripple effect of good health on families and the broader community.
The marathon attracted over 70 runners from various regions of the country, while local residents, political leaders, and dignitaries joined in the endurance walk. The event commenced at Eko-Amukpe, with the Walk for Life officially starting at the Sapele Stadium. Both activities culminated at the Sapele Local Government Secretariat, where participants gathered after traversing significant areas of the town.
The event was organized under the leadership of Hon. Bright Abeke, the Sapele Local Government Chairman, who also took part in the exercise. The Clerk of the House,
Barr Kingsley Esiso, former Delta State PDP Chairman, echoed the sentiments of other participants, commending the residents for their involvement in the exercise. He stressed the importance of physical activity in maintaining good health, stating, “You see, every normal human being must take care of its health,” recognizing the efforts of the Sapele Local Government chairman in promoting health through such initiatives.
However, he also acknowledged the political undertones of the gathering, indicating that participants used the occasion to raise awareness about supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC). “We are politicians. What we did today is to sensitize people on the need to vote the party, and the need to support APC,” Esiso remarked, highlighting the dual purpose of the event in promoting both health and political engagement within the community.
Chief Benson Okorodudu, another participant, highlighted the event’s ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds, including Christians and non-Christians, as well as indigene and non-indigene. He pointed out that the exercise offered health and social benefits that extended beyond financial incentives, noting that participants had the opportunity to burn calories and engage in physical activity. “What they have done now is more than giving people money,” Okorodudu said, emphasizing the vitality gained from the experience.
He also noted the peaceful nature of the event, which he believed was significant for Sapele. The absence of any disturbances during the marathon and walk demonstrated that the town could host large gatherings, fostering an environment conducive to business and investment. “There was no sign of crisis. It was to show that there is peace in Sapele and investors can come to Sapele,” he asserted.