By Chinedu Echianu
GENEVA, Switzerland — The Nigerian labour movement has been thrown into mourning following the death of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), during the ongoing 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva.
Adeleke died on Tuesday after a brief illness while participating in the conference as a member of Nigeria’s workers’ delegation.
Confirming the development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) described the late labour leader as a committed trade unionist whose dedication to the welfare of Nigerian workers remained unwavering until his final moments.
In a statement, Congress says: “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.”
A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), Adeleke served as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council, where he played a significant role in advocating for workers’ rights and welfare.
The NLC notes that throughout his career, the deceased remained steadfast in promoting decent work, social justice, and improved conditions for workers.
“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.
The Congress disclosed that its leadership had visited the hospital where Adeleke’s body is being kept and had commenced arrangements for the repatriation of his remains 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 statement said.
Adeleke’s death has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s participation at the International Labour Conference, a gathering that brings together governments, employers, and workers’ representatives from across the world to deliberate on key labour and employment issues.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, colleagues, and workers who remembered him as a passionate advocate for workers’ welfare and a dedicated public servant.
The NLC extended its condolences to his family, colleagues, and members of the labour movement across the country, describing his passing as a significant loss to organised labour.
“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.
