The Nigerian labour movement has been thrown into mourning following the death of Domingo Michael Adeleke, Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), who passed away in Geneva, Switzerland, during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference.
Adeleke, who was part of Nigeria’s official delegation to the global labour gathering, reportedly fell ill on Tuesday and was taken for medical attention, where he later died after a brief illness.
His death was confirmed by officials within the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), who described him as a dedicated trade unionist committed to advancing workers’ welfare and promoting decent work.
According to the NLC, Adeleke had travelled to Switzerland as part of Nigeria’s representation at the conference, which brings together governments, employers, and labour leaders from around the world to deliberate on global employment and labour issues.
He was an active member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU) and played a key role in labour advocacy in Lagos State, particularly through his leadership of the Joint Negotiating Council.
Colleagues in the labour movement have described his passing as a major loss, noting his longstanding commitment to workers’ rights and social justice.
The NLC said arrangements had begun for the repatriation of his remains to Nigeria, following visits by its leadership to the hospital where his body was kept.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders and union members who praised his dedication and contributions to improving working conditions for Nigerian workers.
His death has also cast a solemn mood over Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing International Labour Conference.
The Nigeria Labour Congress extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the wider labour community, describing him as a committed activist whose legacy would continue to inspire workers’ movements.
