Nasir El-Rufai Writes NSA Ribadu: Seeks Clarification on Alleged Procurement of Toxic Thallium Sulphate

 

Nasir El-Rufai 

​Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has raised serious concerns over reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), under NSA Nuhu Ribadu, procured approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate—a highly toxic, colourless, and odourless chemical—from a supplier in Poland. In a formal letter dated January 30, 2026, addressed to the National Security Adviser at the Three Arms Zone in Abuja, El-Rufai described himself as a "concerned citizen" writing to seek clarification and reassurance. He noted that the information was reportedly available to political opposition leadership, prompting his inquiry for the sake of public safety, democratic accountability, and maintaining public trust.

​Thallium sulphate is a tightly controlled substance known for its extreme toxicity—often called an "odourless poison"—and is subject to strict international regulations due to its potential for misuse in poisoning cases or other hazards. El-Rufai requested detailed answers on several key points:

• ​The intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
• ​The supplier's identity and whether the importation was done under an existing chemical or defence permit.
• ​The total quantity procured, along with the specific form or concentration.
• ​Storage and security arrangements for the material upon arrival in Nigeria.
• ​Regulatory oversight and coordination with agencies like NAFDAC and NCDC.
• ​Whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans were developed, given the compound's dangers.

​He emphasized that the letter was made in good faith to ensure due processes, safety standards, and transparency are upheld. For completeness, El-Rufai copied the Director-General of NAFDAC, the Director-General of NCDC, and national chairmen of opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and People's Democratic Party (PDP).

​The letter, which El-Rufai shared publicly on his X account on February 15, 2026, has sparked widespread discussion amid ongoing political tensions. No official response from the ONSA has been reported yet, and the allegations remain unconfirmed by the security office. This development highlights growing calls for transparency in sensitive procurements involving hazardous materials, especially when linked to national security institutions.

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