Residents of Ikom and Agbokim communities in Cross River State have expressed deep disappointment over the cancellation of the 2025 Agbokim Green Marathon, a 42-km race scheduled to start at the Ikom Township Stadium and end at the Agbokim Waterfalls.
The state government announced the cancellation on Thursday, citing security concerns. However, residents, according to reporters, maintain that the explanation was unconvincing, insisting the area has remained peaceful.
At the Ikom Stadium, several vendors lamented financial losses after stocking their shops and booking spaces in anticipation of the influx of athletes, spectators, and tourists.
A vendor, Stanley Ntangha described the decision as a major setback. “We were expecting to make brisk business because the event would have brought local and foreign athletes as well as spectators. This cancellation has destroyed our hopes,” he said.
Another resident, Tasen Odima, said the announcement came as a shock: “I am surprised the marathon was cancelled without any convincing reason. We have spent so much money preparing for this event.”
The disappointment extended beyond the host communities. Bryan Dwomoh, a Ghanaian sports manager who arrived with two Kenyan athletes, called the cancellation demoralising. “The morale and psychology of the athletes have been affected. All the preparations are now wasted,” he said.
The creator of the Agbokim Marathon, Edem Udomiyang, said organisers have suffered significant losses and risk long-term damage to the marathon’s growing reputation. “With the sudden cancellation, many private sector partners have pulled out,” he revealed.
Udomiyang explained that the marathon, which debuted in 2024, was conceived to promote grassroots sports development, boost tourism, create economic opportunities, and support forest conservation.
Residents and organisers are urging the state government to reconsider its decision, saying the event has become a symbol of community pride, economic revival and environmental awareness.