By Yinka Akanbi
An indigene of Edo State, Osariemen Patience, is set to embark on a 200-hour longest read-aloud marathon by an individual for the Guinness World Record.
Patience’s attempt is scheduled at the Edo State Library, Edo State Secretariat Complex along Sapele Road, Benin City from February 23 to March 3rd, 2024.
Patience, a Diploma graduate of Maritime Engineering from the University of Benin and a current 500-level final-year student from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Biology at Lagos State University, expressed optimism that her feat would provide a unique opportunity to inspire individuals to explore the world of literature, especially Benin literature and culture heritage; spread awareness about irregular migration, human trafficking, climate change.
The 200-hour read-a-thon will feature continuous reading sessions covering carefully curated themes on Benin’s history and cultural heritage, migration, human trafficking, climate change, and art sessions, amongst others.
According to the Guiness World Records website, the current record-holder, Rysbai Isakov (Kyrgyzstan) whose attempt lasted 124 hours, started on 22 September 2022 at 19:00 pm and ended on 27 September 2022 at 23:00 pm.
Isakov read the ‘Manas epic’, a 10th-century legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people, who’s reverred as their sacred ancient forefather. The Manas legend goes to the heart of the Kyrgz people’s spiritual identity, nationalism and culture.
Reacting to the approval by GWR for the attempt, she expressed excitement saying, “I am honoured and grateful to have received the approval from Guinness World Records. This is an incredible opportunity to promote the importance of reading and highlight the cultural richness of Edo State. I hope my efforts inspire others to embrace the power of books and storytelling.”
“The event will be opened to the public, emphasising community engagement,” a post on her Instagram handle @Angelriemen read.
She described the read-a-thon as “a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and inspiration. It is a retelling of the Edo story and the propagation of the dignity and rich cultural heritage of the Edo people to a global audience.”
