The Ekiti State government has denounced the proposed kiss-a-thon organized by a local group, deeming it both immoral and detrimental to public health.
The group had intended to host the contest at one of the state’s hospitality centers, with the ambitious goal of setting a Guinness World Record. The event, scheduled to span three days, was set to commence on Friday.
A statement released by Adelusi A.L. on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the state Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism, categorically stated that such a “preposterous and morally objectionable” competition would not be allowed to take place within the state.
The statement read: “The attention of the State Government has been drawn to a planned hosting of ‘Kiss-a- thon’ in Ekiti State.
“According to information at the disposal of this ministry, kiss-a-thon, a 3-day kissing marathon event has been scheduled to hold on 7th of July, 2023 at one of the hospitality outlets in the State. This event is said to be planned towards setting a Guinness World Record.
“Kiss-a-thon as an event is not only absurd, unhealthy, immoral and capable of denigrating the image of the state, it is a programme that runs counter to the values of the people of the state and therefore capable of plunging our youths morally backward. In view of the foregoing, the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism hereby prohibits the hosting of such an event or any other events like it in any facility that wishes to continue to operate lawfully in Ekiti State.
“Sequel to the above, you are hereby requested to convey the content of this Notice to the members of Ekiti State Hoteliers’ Association to effectively monitor their outlets against being used negatively to cause embarrassment to the Government and People of Ekiti State.”