“A Life Sweet to the End: 85-Year-Old Bayelsa Woman Laid to Rest in Coca-Cola Bottle Casket”
By Passman Akpos
Emeyal 1 community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State witnessed an unforgettable sight as an 85-year-old woman, Late Madam Afuwari Ego, was laid to rest in a specially crafted Coca-Cola bottle-shaped casket—an unusual design that has since set social media abuzz.
The remarkable casket, photographed and shared by blogger Ogbara Walson Henry, quickly drew the attention of residents, mourners, and online audiences. Many described it as “a creative, memorable and fitting tribute” to the late Madam Afuwari, whose family revealed she was an ardent lover of Coca-Cola during her lifetime.
According to relatives, her fondness for the beverage inspired the decision to immortalise her passion in the form of the uniquely shaped coffin.“She loved Coca-Cola so much,” a family member said. “This was our way of honouring something that brought her joy.”
The spectacle immediately triggered a flood of reactions—ranging from humorous takes to philosophical reflections about life, passion, and legacy. Some social media users jokingly declared that “Coca-Cola needs to see this—they have an ambassador even in death.”
Another commenter quipped:“So me now, if I die, dem go bury me inside newspaper as I like soya?”
Others wondered if the deceased may have been a major distributor of Coca-Cola in the region or simply a devoted fan.“Does that mean she was addicted to Coca-Cola or an ardent customer?” one user asked.Another added, “Was she the sole distributor in Ogbia—or even the MD of Coca-Cola?”
A few struck a more serious tone, reminding mourners that ultimately, what mattered most was her eternal rest, not the form of the casket.
The funeral has also inspired playful commentary about Ogbia LGA’s growing reputation for unusual and attention-grabbing events.“Ogbia People Again…? I hereby declare Ogbia as a Local Government of Particular Concern,” one person joked.
Others compared the casket to a previous instance in Ekeremo, where a Gulder-bottle-shaped coffin was used.One commenter even recalled:“My grandma at that age was asking me for Gulder. I say mama make I bring coke, she say no oo—that sugar no good for body!”
Despite the humour and speculation, residents noted that Madam Afuwari lived a long and fulfilling life.“She lived well into a good old age. Thanks to Coca-Cola—aka Coke,” a commenter said, adding a lighthearted but affectionate farewell.
Her burial has now become both a cultural moment and a viral sensation, highlighting the colourful ways communities celebrate the lives of their loved ones—sometimes with creativity, humour, and a splash of personal passion.
