BREAKING: Nigerian Labour leader Domingo Adeleke is dead

The Nigerian delegation to the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva and the country’s labour movement are in mourning following the death of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, a prominent Nigerian labour leader.

Adeleke, Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) and member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness while attending the conference, Vanguard reports.

He reportedly fell ill in Switzerland, was taken for medical attention, but later succumbed.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) confirmed his death, describing Adeleke as a dedicated trade unionist committed to workers’ welfare and the promotion of decent work.

“It is with deep sorrow that the NLC 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,” an NLC official said.

Throughout his career, Adeleke championed labour advocacy and workers’ rights at both the state and national levels. The NLC highlighted his commitment to social justice and his influence on labour relations in Nigeria.

“Comrade Domingo’s 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 NLC added.

The Congress confirmed that its leadership had visited the hospital in Geneva to mourn Adeleke and had begun arrangements for the repatriation of his remains. Tributes have poured in from labour leaders and workers who lauded his contribution to workers’ welfare and public service.

“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 NLC said.