Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, seeking clarification over reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) procured approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate — a substance he described as “highly toxic and tightly controlled.”
a letter titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” El-Rufai said he was acting as a concerned citizen and demanded detailed explanations regarding the alleged purchase.
Dear National Security Adviser. I hope this message finds you well,” the letter began.
am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland.
“Given that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, I believe it is important for public safety, democratic accountability and for maintaining public trust to confirm the following details:
El-Rufai then outlined specific questions he asked the NSA to address:
“1. The intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
“2. The supplier identity and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit.
“3. The total quantity and specific form or concentration being procured or already procured.
“4. The storage and security arrangements for the maserial upon arrival
“5. The regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.
. Whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.
“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed. Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.”
Controversy Deepens
The letter comes amid heightened tensions between El-Rufai and the current administration.
In a recent interview on Arise Television, the former governor alleged that Ribadu orchestrated an attempt to have him arrested at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
El-Rufai further claimed that he became aware of the alleged directive after Ribadu’s telephone conversation was intercepted by an unidentified source.
“The government believes it is the only one that listens to calls, but we also have our ways. He made the call and gave the order. Someone tapped his phone. The government listens to our calls all the time without a court order. Someone tapped his phone and told us that he gave the order,” he had said.
El-Rufai, who has repeatedly accused the administration of witch-hunt, has also vowed to honour an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday. The invitation was reportedly extended to him while he was overseas.
As of press time, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not publicly responded to the letter.
