The ranks of World War II veterans in Nigeria has become further depleted with the death of Chief Michael Onyenekeya Udeagu.

Chief Udeagu, who went on to become a grassroots political titan, died recently in his home town, Umuokogbuo, in Eluama, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State.

An obituary announcement released by one of his sons, Francis Udeagu, described the death of the war veteran as the exit of a colossus.

He said: “I announce the transition to Higher Glory of my father and mentor, Chief Michael Onyenekeya Udeagu, Ojim 1 of Eluama, Isuikwuato, Ome Udo 1 of Umuokogbuo, after 104 years sojourn on earth. He went to be with the Lord on Xmas eve. The iroko has fallen, a veteran of the 2nd World War and one of the last men standing.

“In 1946, he was the first man to build a zinc house in my village. In the days of NCNC, he brought The Great Zik of Africa to my village. In 1979, he contested for Federal House of Representative seat on the platform of UPN. NPP begged him to fly their flag but he refused because of the wrong Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe did to him. The rest is history.”

Investigations byNews Expressshowed that Chief Udeagu’s death has thrown the entire Umuokogbuo community into mourning. President of Umuokogbuo Welfare Association, Mr. Eli Obingonye, disclosed that arrangements are being made to give the departed war veteran a hero’s burial. He confirmed that Chief Udeagu would be buried onWednesday, March 30, 2016.

•Photo shows late World War II veteran, Chief Michael Onyenekeya Udeagu.