Panic has gripped Aso Rock following reports that Nigeria’s Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has been rushed abroad after suffering a severe stroke.
Top sources confirmed the development to SaharaReporters on Sunday, describing the minister’s condition as “very serious,” though he is said to be receiving intensive medical treatment overseas.
“It’s very serious. He may survive, but he can’t get back to work again,” a source revealed, adding that Edun suffered paralysis as a result of the stroke.
The insider also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has begun quiet consultations to identify a replacement amid concerns over Nigeria’s struggling economy and worsening forex situation.
“President Bola Tinubu is looking for a replacement urgently,” the source said. “The paralysis is severe. May God guide us all. This running after dollars is another matter.”
According to multiple reports, Edun’s health crisis is linked to extreme exhaustion and stress from his tight work schedule and poor lifestyle habits — including little rest, skipped meals, and late-night work sessions.
Security operatives, including those from the Department of State Services (DSS), have reportedly confirmed the minister’s condition, describing him as “extremely ill.”
Edun, a long-time ally of Tinubu, was appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy on August 21, 2023. Their professional bond dates back to Tinubu’s days as Lagos governor, when Edun served as Commissioner for Finance from 1999 to 2004.
His illness has caused uncertainty in the presidency, as he has been a central figure in Tinubu’s economic reform team. Just last Thursday, despite his failing health, Edun attended a budget session with the Senate — his last major public appearance before the sudden collapse.
