Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has sparked widespread disappointment by abruptly cancelling the highly anticipated 2025 Agbokim Green Marathon a mere 48 hours before it was set to commence. The sudden decision, officially communicated on Thursday, November 21, 2025, was attributed to unspecified security concerns related to the prevailing national security realities.
Businesses and Dreams Shattered
The announcement, made via a statement from the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Anthony Owan-Enoh, brought all preparations to a grinding halt. The race was scheduled for Saturday, November 22, starting from the Ikom Township Stadium.
Local vendors who had invested heavily in the event were left in a state of frustration and disbelief. Stanley Ntangha, one of the traders, voiced the collective confusion, stating that the area has been peaceful with no history of violent incidents during sporting activities. He detailed how businesses had been planned around the marathon, with many having stocked goods, booked stalls, and paid for accommodation in anticipation of the seasonal economic boost.
Another vendor, Tasen Odima, strongly criticised the government's reasoning. He argued that using security as a justification was not tenable, pointing out the consistent presence of police near the stadium and the absence of any recent crisis in Ikom. His poignant question, "Who will refund what we've spent on printing banners, booking hotels and paying for stalls?" highlights the direct financial impact on small business owners who rely on such events for extra income.
Athletes and Organizers Bear the Brunt
The cancellation also dealt a heavy blow to athletes and international participants who had travelled far for the event. Bryan Dwomoh, a manager from Ghana, arrived with two Kenyan competitors, Florence Wachira and Kevin Nganga, after a three-day journey from Kumasi through Lagos to Calabar. He described the psychological toll of the last-minute cancellation on athletes who had prepared intensely, only to be met with deep disappointment.
Edem Udomiyang, the marathon's founder, expressed that the decision undermines years of dedicated work to build a private-sector-driven international race. Launched in 2024, the event was focused on grassroots sports development, tourism, and environmental advocacy. Udomiyang revealed that the 2025 edition had secured partnerships, many of which are now in jeopardy, and that their brand image is at risk.
He highlighted the logistical nightmare now facing the organizers: finding a way to send home nearly 400 registered athletes, including many who are still en route and unaware the event has been cancelled. He described the situation as nothing short of heartbreaking.
Widespread Fallout from Sudden Decision
The abrupt nature of the cancellation has left a trail of financial loss and broken expectations. The Agbokim Green Marathon was more than just a race; it was a significant economic and cultural event for the community. The governor's reference to broad national security concerns, without specific threats linked to Ikom or the event itself, has been met with skepticism by those directly affected.
This incident raises questions about the balance between security and supporting local enterprise and sports development, leaving vendors and athletes to count their losses and wonder about the future of the event they had all invested in.
