In a statement obtained in Osogbo on Sunday, Mr. Remi Omowaye, the immediate past Commissioner for Works in Osun State, appealed to fellow Nigerians to lend their support to Damilola Adeparusi, an aspiring chef from Ekiti, as she aspires to set a new world record for the longest cooking marathon. Omowaye emphasized the importance of encouraging Adeparusi rather than subjecting her to a barrage of criticisms, which have been directed at her attempts to surpass a record previously achieved by another Nigerian.
Expressing his backing for the Ekiti-born chef, Omowaye announced his donation of N100,000 to assist her in accomplishing her dream. He commended Adeparusi for her dedication to preparing traditional Ekiti cuisines, which have not garnered much popularity beyond the boundaries of the state. The former commissioner emphasized that records exist to be broken and that Adeparusi should be allowed to pursue her aspirations without hindrance.
Omowaye’s statement read, in part, “I stand in support of Miss Damilola Adeparusi, the Ekiti-born chef, in her quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon. I offer a cash support of N100,000 to aid her efforts. Adeparusi, who is currently a student at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), is currently showcasing her culinary skills at an apartment in Ilupeju-Ekiti, located in Oye Local Government Area.”
He further added, “Records are meant to be surpassed. Damilola has committed no wrongdoing by attempting to break Hilda’s record. The sky has ample space to accommodate diverse talents. Let her spread her wings and soar. I believe she is also striving to make a name for herself. Healthy competition should be embraced.”
While recognizing the Ekiti chef’s lack of proper planning for the marathon, particularly the absence of a standby medical personnel in case of emergencies, Omowaye commended her for highlighting the flavors of local Ekiti cuisine. He advised Adeparusi to include more traditional Ekiti dishes such as Feregede, Otili, Pakala, Usu Eura, Usu Olo, Ewa Alagbado, Eusaa, and Egbo, during the cooking marathon.
Omowaye concluded by stating, “Even if she doesn’t break the record, at the very least, we have become acquainted with her, just as we knew Hilda. I believe Hilda should also find joy in inspiring someone to attempt the unimaginable.
