By Tiamiyu Wasiu Adegoke (SIWES Student, Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic)
The Osagunrin of Igunrin, Ilawe Ekiti, Chief Sanya Atofarati, is set to embark on a challenge to establish a new Guinness World Record for the ‘longest marathon watching television.’ Starting on December 27, he aims to surpass the current record of 94 hours set in 2016 by Fragoso, a web developer from Tokyo.
Chief Atofarati, a traditional leader, plans to endure 120 hours of continuous TV watching, emphasizing the commitment to this feat by refraining from work, community engagement, and social activities during the festive season. The challenge will kick off at 1 am on December 27, 2023, and conclude at 1 am on January 1, 2024, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.
In a statement titled ‘Why I am attempting GWR, Atofarati,’ he clarified that the exercise is not a fundraising initiative. He and his team will welcome constructive criticism and opinions while maintaining transparency regarding monetary donations. Medical aids will be on-site to ensure his well-being, with live-streaming providing real-time public assessment.
The designated hashtags for the event are #ChiefSanya and #GWRchiefsanya. Chief Atofarati’s team plans to leverage this opportunity to support emerging talents, offering free recording sessions for 50 artists and welcoming volunteer DJs to join the endurance journey.
Highlighting the purpose beyond personal achievement, Chief Atofarati expressed his aim to use the global platform to raise awareness for information gathering and dissemination in Africa. He sees this endeavor as a means to showcase the rich cultural diversity and talents of the black community on a global scale.
Atofarati shared his multifaceted skills, including being a farmer, sculptor, impressionist, and songwriter. He sees the Guinness World Record attempt as a unique opportunity to shed light on his hometown, Ilawe-Ekiti, known for abundant banana production.
With the GWR’s approval, Chief Atofarati plans to submit evidence during the Christmas and New Year festivities, emphasizing the significance of bonding with family and friends during this celebratory season.
