By Our Correspondent
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has formally written to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), seeking clarification over reports that the agency allegedly imported approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic substance, from Poland.
The ONSA is currently headed by Nuhu Ribadu.
In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, El-Rufai disclosed that he took the step as part of his civic responsibility as a concerned citizen, citing concerns over public safety and transparency in national security operations.
According to him, information circulating among opposition political leaders suggests that the security office recently procured the chemical from a foreign supplier in Poland.
“As part of my duty as a citizen, I wrote to the NSA to seek clarification on reports about the importation by his office of thallium sulphate, a very dangerous toxin,” El-Rufai stated.
He described thallium sulphate as an odourless and colourless compound, characteristics that make its presence particularly alarming if not properly handled. The former governor noted that thallium compounds are globally recognised as extremely hazardous substances and are subject to strict international regulations.
In his letter, El-Rufai raised questions, requesting detailed explanations from the National Security Adviser on several key issues, including:
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The specific purpose for which the chemical was procured
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The intended end-user within or outside government
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The identity of the supplying company
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Whether the importation was authorised under any valid chemical, defence, or security permit
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The exact quantity and concentration acquired
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The storage, handling, and security protocols in place
He also queried whether relevant regulatory and public health agencies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), were consulted to assess potential health risks and develop mitigation measures.
According to El-Rufai, “public confidence in national institutions requires that this matter be addressed promptly and transparently.”
As of press time, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued an official response to the allegations.
Below is a reconstructed excerpt of the letter referenced by the former governor:
Dear Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser,
I write to formally seek clarification regarding reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser recently imported approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from a foreign supplier.
Thallium compounds are internationally recognised as highly toxic substances and are subject to strict regulatory controls. Given the grave public health and security implications associated with such materials, it is important that clarity be provided.
Kindly provide details on:
The purpose for which the substance was procured;
The end-user and operational justification;
The supplier and authorising permits obtained;
The quantity and concentration acquired;
The storage, security, and safety arrangements in place;
Whether NAFDAC, NCDC, or other relevant authorities were involved in risk assessment and mitigation planning.
Transparency on this matter will help reassure the public and strengthen confidence in our national institutions.
Yours sincerely,
Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai
The development adds to ongoing political tensions, as opposition figures continue to demand greater transparency in matters relating to national security and public safety.