Twenty years after the tragic crash of Bellview Airlines Flight 210 that claimed 117 lives in Lisa Village, Ogun State, the community, yesterday, gathered in solemn remembrance, honouring the victims and renewing calls for infrastructure renewal and national recognition.

The commemorative event, organised by Ifesowapo Consultative Forum, drew traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and residents from 32 surrounding towns.

The day began with an emotional procession of over 500 youths from Lisa and neighbouring communities, including Oyero, Arugudu, Oluke, Okungbolu, Alapandi, Shonde, Awure, Ayegbe, Olayemi, and Demokunla, with placards bearing the names of the 117 victims, with a candlelight vigil that lasted into the evening.

The event also featured cultural performances by the Gelede Cultural Troupe from Oluke and the Igunnuko Lisa Group, adding rich local flavour to the occasion.

Meanwhile, the Onilisa of Lisa, Oba Najeemdeen Oladele Ayinla Odugbemi, reflected on the significance of the day, saying: “For me, I give all glory to God that we are witnessing today’s 20th Memorial Anniversary event.

“While we pray for the souls of those heroes who lost their lives to this crash, we pray that God keeps their memories alive and stays with their families. The crash has recreated the story of Lisa Town into a globally recognised community. We are, however, still pleading with the government to restore the Lisa Memorial Arcade, which stood as a symbol of national empathy and promise.”

Also, Chairman of the Lisa 20th Memorial Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr Fola Abati, said: “We are saddened by the memory of the 2005 crash, but we also recognise that it brought development to our area. By the mercy of God, the pain of these departed heroes will not go in vain. We appeal to the government to rebuild the road and transform this place into a centre of memory and tourism.” The Amona of Lisa, Adeyinka Adefunmiloye, described the anniversary as a moment of reflection and responsibility.