Folarin Coker, ‘baba eto of Lagos’, dies at 97

Folarin Coker, popular known as “baba eto of Lagos”, is dead.

His death was announced in a statement by Folorunsho Coker, his eldest child and the director-general of Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), on Thursday.

The statement said Coker, who was a former permanent secretary of Lagos, died peacefully after a brief illness.

He was aged 97.

“It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of appreciation to Almighty God that we announce the translation to eternal glory of our beloved father, grandfather, uncle and patriot Chief (Elderman) Nathaniel Folarin Coker OON,” the statement read.

“He died comfortably and peacefully in his sleep in Lagos on the 12th of August 2020 at the ripe old age of 97 years.

“His was a life so beautifully lived which deserves to be beautifully remembered. He dutifully and meritoriously served his state and country in his lifetime, and we, his family are very proud of his life and service.

“We are comforted by the fact that his good name is worth more than gold and that his memory will always be a blessing to each and every one of us all. Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.”

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, in a condolence message, said Coker’s death should be celebrated as he served the state meritoriously in various capacities.

Sanwo-Olu described the late Coker as “a representation of the true spirit of Lagos” and as someone who contributed meaningfully to the better and bigger Lagos narrative.

“The late Folarin Coker lived a very good life. His demise, though a great loss to our dear State, should be celebrated. He served Lagos meritoriously as a public servant in various capacities, contributing his quota to the growth narratives of Lagos.

“The late Chief Coker was also a socialite of note. I remember that as a young man, I always admired his candour whenever he spoke at social gatherings. He was a representation of the true spirit of Lagos.

“His service to our dear State as Permanent Secretary took him to various ministries such as Education; Youth, Sports and Social Development, Trade, Mines and Natural Resources as well as the ministry of information and tourism, where he contributed meaningfully to the better and bigger Lagos narrative.

“I pray for his soul to find peace with his creator. May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”