Oyo hosts maiden Mekunu Marathon 2025 as Athletes run for liberty

The historic town of Oyo came alive on Saturday, August 16, 2025, as athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across Nigeria gathered for the inaugural 21-kilometre Mekunu Marathon — Oyo Marathon 2025, themed “Run for Liberty.”

The race, which began in Fiditi and ended at the Aafin Stadium in Oyo, saw over 150 male and female athletes compete for pride, honour, and cash prizes.

Participants ran through strategic points across the ancient city, turning the streets into a vibrant celebration of sport, culture, and community spirit.

Organised by the Apero Mekunu Movement, a socio-political and intellectual platform advocating for grassroots empowerment and political consciousness, the marathon was designed not only to promote fitness and community bonding but also to serve as a symbolic call for a shift from Nigeria’s prevailing political culture to a more inclusive and people-oriented system.

Speaking to Ireport247news sports correspondent after the event, the movement’s Convener and Chief Analyst, Amoye Bola Sidiq, explained the deeper meaning of the race.

“Run for Liberty is a celebration of resilience, freedom, and unity among the people of Oyo State and Nigeria at large. The marathon symbolises a drift towards political enlightenment and intellectual awakening. We need to run away from the status quo of a desolate and unproductive system into a new, polished system that benefits the masses.”

He described the movement as a peaceful intellectual response to governance challenges, aimed at inspiring Nigerians to ask fundamental questions about policies and administration while pushing for systemic reform.

The marathon also produced inspiring sporting stories; Davou Ezekiel Gyang from Plateau State emerged winner of the men’s category, describing the event as one of the biggest grassroots competitions of the year.

“It wasn’t an easy race, but I thank God I became the champion. The organization was amazing for a maiden edition, and I believe it will only get better.”

In the women’s category, Alabi Aminat Adenike from Lagos State claimed first place, dedicating her victory to her young son.

“It was tough because marathon is not my main event, but I kept going because of my son. I needed to win for him — he’s my source of strength.”

First runners-up in both categories — David Abiye Joy (women) and Adetiba Abiodun Michael (men) — commended the organisers but called for improvements in technical areas such as route planning, visibility at the finishing point, and adherence to start times.

Winners were rewarded with generous cash prizes; both male and female champions received ₦500,000 each, first runners-up took home ₦250,000, and second runners-up earned ₦150,000.

Additional consolation prizes were presented to encourage participation.

The maiden edition of the Mekunu Marathon drew a large crowd of athletes, community supporters, and spectators, all eager to witness the symbolic blend of athletics, culture, and advocacy.

As the sun set over Oyo, it was clear the Mekunu Marathon has established itself as more than a race — it’s a platform for grassroots talent, community celebration, and political reawakening.