Wale Edun Recovering In Abuja, Presidency Denies Stroke And Replacement Reports
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, is recovering at his Abuja residence after falling ill, with the Presidency debunking claims that he suffered a stroke or had been flown abroad for treatment.
Presidency sources told The PUNCH on Sunday that although the minister’s illness is somewhat serious, he remains under medical supervision in Nigeria and continues to recuperate at home.
A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, clarified that there is no plan by President Bola Tinubu to replace Edun. “Yes, he’s indisposed. He’s sick, which is a bit serious, but it’s not a stroke. As I’m talking to you, he’s in his house. He has not been flown anywhere. Of course, he might seek medical attention elsewhere if doctors say it’s necessary,” the source said.
Another top official confirmed that Edun is being treated by Nigerian doctors, noting that any decision to seek further care abroad would depend on medical advice. “He’s being attended to by Nigerian doctors. They’re still monitoring him. If he needs medical care outside Nigeria, he will go. But he’s still at home. There are no plans to replace him,” the source stated.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also confirmed Edun’s condition, saying, “Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill. As we are talking, he is in Nigeria. He is recuperating. He’s around.”
His comments followed reports by The Whistler alleging that President Tinubu was considering replacing the minister following news of his ill health.
Earlier, the Presidency announced that Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, would lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 2024 World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the minister. The meetings are scheduled to commence on Monday, October 14.
Appointed on August 28, 2023, Edun has been a central figure in Tinubu’s economic reform drive, championing efforts to stabilise the naira, reduce inflation, and attract foreign investment. He previously served as Lagos State Commissioner for Finance under Tinubu’s administration between 1999 and 2004.
As of the time of this report, the Ministry of Finance had yet to issue an official statement regarding his health.
