ADSC Boss Condemns Fake Reports on Edun’s Health, Calls for Responsible Journalism

ADSC Boss Condemns Fake Reports on Edun’s Health, Calls for Responsible Journalism

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The President and Chief Executive Officer of the African Development Studies Centre (ADSC), Sir Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, has condemned what he described as “reckless and medically baseless” reports about the health of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Sir Oluwafemi called for restraint, accuracy, and responsibility in journalism, especially when reporting on the health of public officials.

He expressed deep concern over the growing trend of publishing unverified medical claims about prominent Nigerians, describing it as “a dangerous erosion of empathy and ethics in national discourse.”

“It is entirely out of place and medically reckless to declare, without evidence, that a person’s sensory or motor functions have been compromised,” Sir Oluwafemi said. “Such claims are not only false but deeply inhumane.”

Recent online reports had alleged that Minister Edun was “unable to move his hands and knees,” a story Sir Oluwafemi dismissed as “outright falsehood lacking any medical backing or verifiable evidence.”

Citing information obtained from the Minister’s family on Wednesday, the ADSC chief clarified that Mr. Edun is merely undergoing routine medical evaluation and treatment and is recuperating well, with all major organs functioning normally.

Sir Oluwafemi urged Nigerians to protect, rather than vilify, public servants who dedicate their expertise to national development.

“As a nation, we must support our technocrats and public intellectuals who labour daily to improve our economy and society,” he said. “Whether one agrees or disagrees with government policies, it is wrong to fabricate health scares designed to undermine confidence in leadership.”

Speaking as a knight, Sir Oluwafemi reaffirmed his commitment to truth, ethics, and honour in public service.

“As a knight, I have taken an oath to uphold integrity and truth. I cannot remain silent when misinformation threatens both individuals and our national institutions,” he said.

The ADSC boss also cautioned against using illness as a political weapon, warning that such conduct undermines decency and humanity.

“Illness is a deeply human experience — not a political tool or an opportunity for sensationalism,” he said. “Behind every headline is a father, a colleague, a servant of the nation who deserves privacy and compassion.”

He concluded with a passionate appeal for truth and empathy in national dialogue.
“We are all human. We all fall ill. We all need time to heal. Let us build a public discourse rooted in truth, compassion, and respect. Our democracy must be anchored on dignity, not deceit.”