The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) is in a state of mourning following the announcement of the death of its former General Secretary, Comrade (Dr.) Peter Ozo-Eson. The veteran labour leader passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
A Loss for the Labour Movement
In an official statement released on its social media platforms on Sunday, December 14, the NLC confirmed that Ozo-Eson died at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, Oyo State. The Congress paid glowing tribute to his immense contributions, stating that his work for the Nigerian working class would never be forgotten.
The NLC's statement highlighted his profound impact: "His commitment, intellect, and lifelong service to the labour movement and the Nigerian working class remain indelible. He will be deeply missed by the Congress, the labour family, and all who shared in his vision for a just and equitable society."
Outpouring of Tributes and Personal Memories
The news triggered an immediate wave of grief and fond recollections from union members and associates who flooded the comment section of the NLC's announcement. The tributes painted a picture of a kind mentor and a formidable intellectual.
Olakunbi Omisakin remembered his personal kindness: "Sir, you have gone, but your legacy remains... I recall how you took the time to review my BSc Sociology work before submission... Your act of kindness and mentorship has shaped me."
Enoch Bakson Kanawa saluted his ideological stance: "A great economist of the socialist bends. He was always fighting on the side of the poor during the heyday of deregulation of the oil and gas downstream."
Others, like Lawrence Otu, expressed sheer grief, calling his exit a loss that creates an unfillable vacuum. Haruna Manzo recalled meeting Ozo-Eson when he was a lecturer in the Economics Department at the University of Jos.
A Legacy of Service and Struggle
Dr. Peter Ozo-Eson's death marks the end of an era for the Nigerian labour movement. His tenure and active years were defined by advocacy for workers' rights and social justice. The NLC's acknowledgment of his "lifelong service" underscores the significant role he played in shaping labour relations and policies in Nigeria.
The union's statement and the personal testimonies collectively affirm that Ozo-Eson was not just an administrator but a passionate comrade whose influence extended from high-level economic policy debates to individual mentorship of young scholars and activists.
As the labour family and the nation at large come to terms with this loss, the focus remains on celebrating a life dedicated to the pursuit of equity and the betterment of the Nigerian worker. Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in due course.
