Domingo Adeleke dies while attending the International Labour Conference in Geneva as Nigerian labour leaders mourn his passing
Nigerian labour leader and Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, died on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, in Geneva, Switzerland, while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC).
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Adeleke, who was also a member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), reportedly fell ill during the conference and was taken for medical attention before he later passed away.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) confirmed his death, describing Adeleke as a committed trade unionist who dedicated his career to workers’ welfare and the promotion of decent work.
The labour body announced that the Nigerian delegation to the ILC and the wider trade union movement were mourning the loss of the respected labour advocate.
“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 played a significant role in labour advocacy, championing workers’ rights and contributing to discussions around public service and industrial relations.
The NLC said his commitment to social justice took him to the global stage, where he continued representing Nigerian workers until his final days.
“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 Congress said.
The NLC leadership visited the hospital in Geneva following the incident and confirmed that arrangements had commenced for the repatriation of Adeleke’s remains.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, colleagues and workers who described him as a passionate advocate for improved working conditions and public service development.
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The Congress extended its condolences to Adeleke’s family, the labour community and workers across Lagos State, noting that his contributions to workers’ rights would remain a lasting part of Nigeria’s labour history.
