The Nigerian labour movement has been thrown into mourning following the death of prominent union leader, Domingo Michael Adeleke, who passed away in Geneva, Switzerland, while on official duty representing Nigeria at the ongoing International Labour Conference.
Adeleke, who served as Chairman of the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) in Lagos State and was a respected figure within the labour community, reportedly died on Tuesday after a brief illness during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC).
Confirming the development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) described his death as a painful loss to the trade union movement, noting that he remained committed to the struggle for workers’ welfare until his final moments.
In a statement, the Congress said: “It is with deep sorrow that the Nigeria Labour Congress and the entire trade union movement announce the passing of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, who died in Geneva after a brief illness while attending the International Labour Conference.”
The late labour leader was part of Nigeria’s delegation to the global gathering of governments, employers and workers’ representatives, where key labour and employment issues are being discussed.
A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), Adeleke built a reputation as a passionate advocate for workers’ rights, playing leading roles in wage negotiations, industrial relations matters and campaigns aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of public servants.
The NLC noted that his dedication and contributions to the labour movement earned him widespread respect across the country.
Reflecting on his impact, the Congress stated: “His dedication to Nigerian workers and the struggle for decent work took him to the global stage right to the end. His loss is deeply felt by all who worked with him.”
Labour officials disclosed that Adeleke fell ill during the conference and was rushed for medical attention but sadly did not recover.
Following his death, leaders of the NLC reportedly visited the hospital where his remains are being kept and have begun arrangements for the repatriation of his body to Nigeria.
His passing has cast a sombre mood over Nigeria’s participation at the conference, with colleagues and labour activists paying glowing tributes to a man many described as a tireless defender of workers and social justice.
The NLC extended its condolences to Adeleke’s family, colleagues and the wider labour movement, describing his death as a significant setback to the struggle for workers’ rights and decent work in Nigeria.
Tributes have continued to pour in from union leaders, labour organisations and associates, who remembered him as a dedicated public servant whose legacy of service and advocacy will endure beyond his lifetime.
