The Nigerian labour movement has been thrown into mourning following the death of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, a prominent labour leader and member of Nigeria’s delegation to the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Adeleke, who served as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), reportedly passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness while attending the global labour gathering.
According to reports, the labour leader became ill during the conference and was taken for medical treatment. Despite efforts to stabilise him, he later died, leaving members of the Nigerian delegation and labour community in shock.
The sad development was confirmed by an official of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), who described Adeleke as a passionate advocate for workers’ welfare and a dedicated trade unionist whose contributions to the labour movement would not be forgotten.
“It is with deep sorrow that the Nigeria Labour Congress and the entire trade union movement in Nigeria, especially the 2026 Workers’ Delegates to the International Labour Conference, announce the passing of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, who died today in Geneva after a brief illness while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference,” the official stated.
Adeleke was a member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU) and played a significant role in labour negotiations and workers’ advocacy as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council. Throughout his career, he was actively involved in initiatives aimed at improving workers’ welfare, promoting fair labour practices, and advancing social justice.
The NLC noted that Adeleke remained unwavering in his commitment to protecting workers’ rights and championing decent work standards both within Nigeria and on the international stage.
“Comrade Domingo was a committed trade unionist whose dedication to Nigerian workers and the struggle for decent work took him to the global stage right to the end.
“His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him and worked alongside him,” the statement added.
Following news of his passing, the leadership of the NLC reportedly visited the hospital where his remains are being kept to pay their respects and begin the necessary arrangements for the return of his body to Nigeria.
“The NLC leadership earlier today went to the hospital to see his body in solidarity, mourn his passing, and begin the process of arranging the necessary procedures,” the official disclosed.
His death has cast a sombre mood over Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing International Labour Conference, one of the world’s largest labour forums that brings together representatives of governments, employers, and workers from different countries to deliberate on employment policies, labour rights, and workplace standards.
As news of his demise spread, tributes poured in from labour leaders, union members, colleagues, and workers who praised his dedication to public service and his long-standing commitment to improving the lives of workers.
Many remembered him as a courageous voice in labour relations, a skilled negotiator, and a leader who consistently championed the interests of workers at various levels.
The Nigeria Labour Congress described his passing as a major loss to the labour movement and extended condolences to his family, friends, associates, and fellow unionists.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the NLC family and all comrades across Lagos State. May his soul rest in peace, and may his commitment to workers’ rights continue to inspire us,” the Congress stated.
Adeleke’s colleagues have continued to honour his legacy, recalling his years of service, dedication to workers’ welfare, and tireless efforts to promote better working conditions and stronger labour representation.
His death marks the end of a career defined by advocacy, service, and commitment to the protection of workers’ rights, leaving behind a legacy that many within Nigeria’s labour movement say will continue to inspire future generations of trade unionists.
