Former NLC Chairman Oyekan Arije Dies at 87 After Decades of Labour Activism

Nigeria’s labour movement has lost one of its veteran figures, as former Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Oyekan Arije, has passed away at the age of 87.

Arije died in the early hours of Tuesday, August 18, 2026, according to a statement issued by activist lawyer Femi Aborisade on behalf of the deceased’s family.

The late labour leader was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s workers’ movement, having been involved in labour activism since the 1960s and later serving as NLC chairman from the late 1970s to the early 1980s.

Announcing his death, Aborisade described Arije as a committed socialist and a defender of workers’ rights who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and improved conditions for ordinary Nigerians.

“With the consent and at the request of the biological children, I announce, with profound sadness, the transition to eternity of COMRADE (PA) OYEKAN ARIJE, a foremost Labour Leader and Socialist, who passed on in the early hours of Tuesday, 18 August 2026, at the age of 87,” Aborisade said.

He added that Arije’s life was defined by his commitment to the struggles of the working class and disadvantaged communities against economic and political inequality.

Throughout his decades in public service and labour advocacy, Arije remained recognised as one of the voices that shaped Nigeria’s trade union movement during a period of major political and economic changes.

His death marks the end of an era for a generation of labour activists who played key roles in organising workers and pushing for social justice in Nigeria.