Ghanaian Chef Ebenezer Smith, widely known as Chef Smith, has issued a heartfelt apology to Ghanaians after his attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon turned into a scandal. Chef Smith in a recent video apologising to Ghanaians admitted that he did not receive approval from Guinness World Records (GWR) before proceeding with the attempt, where he claimed to have cooked for 802 hours and 25 minutes.

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The joyful announcement was made during a press conference at La Palm Hotel in Accra on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.The celebration was short-lived as Guinness World Records quickly refuted his claim, confirming that the certificate he presented was fake and that the actual record holder remains Alan Fisher from Ireland. Madalyn Bielfield, PR Manager for Guinness World Records, stated unequivocally, "No, this is not true at all.

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He does not hold the GWR title and that is not our certificate."Following the public embarrassment, Chef Smith took to social media to apologize. In a video where he appeared on his knees and visibly distressed, Chef Smith admitted to misleading the nation."I have committed a great sin and I don't even deserve to live anymore but please forgive me and my entire family. I have sinned against the entire nation," he said in Twi.

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Chef Smith explained that although he registered for the record attempt, he never received approval from Guinness World Records. "I registered but I wasn't approved. I just wanted an opportunity to show the world the talent God has given me. I wanted the opportunity to show the world my passion for cooking and get fame. I am sorry,” he said, tears streaming down his face.

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Amidst the controversy, Chef Smith was arrested on charges of fraud but has since been released. Further complicating his situation, it was revealed that he is not a registered member of the Chefs Association of Ghana.

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Peter Agbovi, the General Secretary of the association, commented on Chef Smith's professional status, saying, "You can call him a chef because he is a professional, but he is not a registered member of the Chefs Association of Ghana."Chef Smith’s apology extended to prominent figures, including former First Lady Lordina Mahama and the President, as he sought forgiveness for his actions.

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