Labour Leader Domingo Michael Adeleke Dies in Geneva During International Labour Conference

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, Switzerland.
Adeleke reportedly passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness while attending the conference as a member of Nigeria’s delegation. Sources within the labour movement disclosed that he fell ill during the event and was taken for medical treatment, where he later died.
Confirming the development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) described Adeleke as a dedicated trade unionist whose commitment to the welfare of workers remained unwavering throughout his career.
In a statement issued by an NLC official, the Congress expressed deep sadness over his passing, noting that Adeleke represented Nigerian workers with passion and dedication both at home and on the international stage.
“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 in Geneva after a brief illness while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference,” the statement read.
The NLC noted that Adeleke remained committed to the promotion of decent work, social justice, and the protection of workers’ rights until his final moments.
According to the Congress, his contributions to labour relations and advocacy for workers’ welfare earned him widespread respect among colleagues and labour leaders across the country.
Following his death, the leadership of the NLC visited the hospital where his body is being kept to pay their respects and begin arrangements for the repatriation of his remains to Nigeria.
“The NLC leadership visited the hospital to see his body in solidarity, mourn his passing, and commence the necessary procedures for the return of his remains,” the Congress stated.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, colleagues, and workers who described Adeleke as a passionate advocate for workers’ interests and a committed public servant.
The NLC extended its condolences to his family, colleagues, and members of the labour movement, describing his death as a significant loss to the trade union community.
“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 statement added.
Adeleke is remembered as a devoted labour activist who spent much of his career championing workers’ welfare and contributing to the advancement of labour relations in Nigeria. His death has left a void within the labour movement, where he was widely regarded as a respected voice for workers and social justice.