Nigerian Labour Leader Domingo Adeleke Dies At Conference In Geneva

The Nigerian labour movement has been thrown into mourning following the death of prominent labour leader, Domingo Michael Adeleke, in Geneva, Switzerland.

Adeleke, who was the Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), reportedly passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference as a member of Nigeria’s delegation.

The sad development was confirmed by the Nigeria Labour Congress, which described Adeleke as a committed trade unionist who devoted his life to promoting workers’ welfare and advancing decent labour standards.

According to the Congress, the labour leader fell ill during the conference and was taken for medical treatment before his death.

In a statement, the NLC said Adeleke’s passing is a major loss to the Nigerian labour movement, noting that he consistently championed the rights and interests of workers throughout his career.

A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, Adeleke was widely recognised for his active involvement in labour negotiations and initiatives aimed at improving workers’ welfare in Lagos State.

Colleagues and associates described him as a passionate labour advocate who dedicated his career to protecting workers’ rights and improving working conditions across the public service.

The NLC disclosed that its leadership has visited the hospital where his remains are being kept and has begun arrangements to return his body to Nigeria for burial.

His death has cast a sombre mood over Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing International Labour Conference, which brings together governments, employers, and workers’ representatives from around the world to discuss global labour and employment issues.

Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, union members, and workers across the country, many of whom remembered Adeleke for his dedication to social justice, public service, and the welfare of Nigerian workers.

The NLC extended its condolences to his family, colleagues, and members of the labour community, describing his death as a painful loss.

The Congress also prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul while acknowledging his contributions to the advancement of labour rights in Nigeria.