Due to the escalating covid-19 crisis and the travel restrictions across the globe, organizers of the Okpekpe international 10km road race, the first label road running event in West Africa have cancelled the 8th edition of the competition. The cancellation comes 6 weeks before the event scheduled for Saturday, May 23rd, 2020 in Okpekpe.
Mike Itemuagbor, promoter of the race says the decision to cancel the first road race in Nigeria and West Africa to be granted a World Athletics label was a difficult one. According to the promoter, they understand how disappointed the runners would be after putting in so much towards the event and tourists who have always chosen the time of the race to escape the hustle and bustle of many Nigerian cities to unwind in a serene, hilly countryside that the Okpekpe community and adjoining towns represent.
He revealed that organizers of the race are working with relevant authorities in Nigeria, especially the government of Edo state to ensure a safe environment for all Nigerians and visitors who come into Okpekpe and Edo state for various reasons including sports.
Source: Ugochukwu Okeiyi
