The quiet community of Emeyal 1 in Ogbia Local Government Area witnessed an extraordinary funeral ceremony that has captured national attention. An 85-year-old woman, affectionately known as Ego Na Money, received a burial unlike any other when she was laid to rest inside a custom-made coffin shaped like a giant Coca-Cola bottle.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
The remarkable burial ceremony took place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, drawing widespread attention from community members and beyond. Late Madam Afuwari Ego, who passed away at the age of 85, was celebrated with this creative tribute that reflected her personality and preferences.
According to Ogbara Walson Henry, who documented the event through photographs, the unusual casket became the center of attention during the funeral proceedings. Guests and residents alike expressed amazement at the unique design, describing it as both memorable and deeply personal.
The Inspiration Behind the Unique Tribute
Family members explained that the decision to commission the special casket was directly inspired by the deceased's lifelong affection for Coca-Cola. Madam Afuwari Ego had developed such a strong connection to the popular soft drink that her loved ones felt it represented an important part of her identity.
The carefully crafted Coca-Cola bottle-shaped coffin stood as a testament to her unique character and the personal touches that made her memorable to those who knew her. Rather than following conventional funeral practices, the family chose to honor her memory in a way that truly reflected her individual spirit.
Community Reaction and Cultural Significance
The unconventional burial sparked conversations throughout the community and beyond, with many praising the family's creativity and willingness to personalize the funeral experience. The event demonstrated how Nigerian funeral traditions are evolving to incorporate more personalized elements that celebrate the specific interests and personalities of the deceased.
This unique approach to honoring the dead represents a growing trend where families move beyond traditional funeral practices to create ceremonies that more accurately reflect the lives being commemorated. The Coca-Cola bottle casket burial has set a new precedent for personalized funerals in the region.
As news of the unusual burial spreads, it continues to generate discussion about how we memorialize our loved ones and the ways in which personal preferences can be incorporated into final farewells.
