WEEKEND REEL
ETSAKO EAST RADIATES HOPE AND GLOBAL PRIDE AS OKPEKPE 10KM 2026 UNITES LEADERS, ATHLETES, AND COMMUNITIES IN A SPECTACULAR CELEBRATION OF PEACE, CULTURE, AND PROGRESS
Etsako East, Edo State – Saturday, 30th May 2026 will be remembered as a day Etsako East stood tall before the world.
The entire Council turned out with one heart as we successfully hosted the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10KM Road Race.
From the Council Chambers to the streets of Okpekpe, the spirit was one of unity, excellence, and shared purpose.
This remarkable outing was made possible through the purposeful leadership of Rt. Hon. Sunny Ekpetika Ekpeson, Executive Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Council and Chairman of ALGON, Edo State Chapter.
Though he was unavoidably engaged on other state duties, his vision and directives ensured everything moved smoothly.
He was ably represented by a committed team led by the Acting Vice Chairman, Hon. Charles Aloaye Dagana.
Standing with him were the Secretary to the Council, Hon. Edward Imanobe, the Director of Administration and General Services, Mr. Charles Ahonsi, Special Adviser on Security to the Acting Executive Chairman Etsako East LGC, Rt. Hon Ekpeson, Mr. Bright Omoudu, all Heads of Departments, and a full team of dedicated officers who gave their best for a hitch-free event.
The success we witnessed was built on weeks of thoughtful planning and teamwork. Students, community volunteers, medical teams, security agencies, and our local vigilante groups worked side by side.
Their coordination guaranteed safety, order, and a warm welcome for every guest. It was service in action, and our people delivered with pride.
Okpekpe itself was transformed into a festival of colour and goodwill. The air was filled with music, cheers, and the kind of hospitality that Etsako East is known for.
International runners stood shoulder to shoulder with local athletes, while visitors from across Nigeria and beyond felt the genuine warmth of our community.
Cultural displays brought our heritage to life and reminded everyone that progress and tradition can walk hand in hand.
The race attracted both action and admiration. Some joined the track with determination and courage, while others lined the routes as proud supporters, clapping, cheering, and celebrating every step.
In every way, the people participated — either with their feet on the road or with their voices lifting the runners. It was truly a day when every citizen had a role to play in our collective success.
The calibre of guests who honoured us spoke volumes about the reputation Okpekpe now commands.
We were delighted to receive His Excellency, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, the visionary architect of this global race and former Governor of Edo State.
Representing the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, was his Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa, who brought the Governor’s goodwill and support to our people.
Also present were Hon. Minister Alhaji Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, Minister of Regional Development, Federal Republic of Nigeria; Hon. Philip Shaibu, immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State, and current Director General for National Institute for Sports; immediate past Council Chairperson Hon. Benedicta; His Royal Highness, the Onweweko of Okpekpe, Apa Peter Abalumhe; our beloved mother and the oldest woman of Okpekpe clan, Nyabash; and a host of respected traditional rulers, leaders, and stakeholders whose presence crowned the event with dignity.
Okpekpe 2026 has shown the world what is possible when a community chooses unity over division and service over self.
Etsako East is not just hosting races — we are building bridges, creating opportunities, and writing a new story of hope for our children and generations to come.
Etsako East is rising✅
Together, we run, we build, and we win✅
Issued by:
Comr. Amb. Abass Egbezemogie Yunusah
Chief Press Secretary, Etsako East Local Government Council, Agenebode
Sunday, 31st May 2026
