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By Lawrence Agbo
The Nigerian labour movement has been plunged into grief following the death of labour leader Domingo Michael Adeleke during an official trip to Geneva, Switzerland.
Adeleke, who served as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), died on Tuesday after a brief illness while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) as a member of Nigeria’s delegation.
His passing was confirmed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which described him as a dedicated advocate for workers’ rights whose commitment to labour issues remained unwavering until his final days.
According to labour officials, Adeleke fell ill during the conference and was taken for medical treatment but did not recover.
In a statement mourning his death, the NLC said the labour leader devoted his career to advancing the welfare of workers and promoting social justice within and beyond Nigeria.
“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 statement read.
A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), Adeleke was widely known in labour circles for his role in wage negotiations, industrial relations and campaigns aimed at improving working conditions for public servants.
The Congress noted that his contributions to the labour movement earned him respect among colleagues and workers across the country.
“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,” the NLC added.
Following the development, NLC leaders visited the hospital where his remains are being kept and commenced arrangements for the repatriation of his body to Nigeria.
The death has cast a sombre mood over Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing conference, which gathers representatives of governments, employers and workers from around the world to discuss labour and employment matters.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, union members and associates who remembered Adeleke as a passionate advocate for workers and a committed public servant.
The NLC extended condolences to his family, colleagues and members of the labour movement, describing his passing as a significant loss to the struggle for workers’ rights in Nigeria.
