Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has asked National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to clarify reports alleging that the Office of the National Security Adviser is planning to procure about 10 kilogrammes of thallium sulphate.
In a letter dated January 30 and addressed to Ribadu, El-Rufai said the substance was reportedly to be sourced from a supplier in Poland.
“I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about the procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser, reportedly from a supplier in Poland,” he wrote.
The former governor noted that thallium compounds are highly toxic and strictly regulated, stressing the need for clarity in the interest of public safety and institutional accountability.
He requested details on the intended purpose and end-use of the substance, the identity of the supplier, and whether its importation would be carried out under appropriate chemical or defence permits.
El-Rufai also sought information on the quantity and concentration involved, storage and security arrangements, as well as regulatory oversight and coordination with the NAFDAC, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, and other relevant agencies.
He further asked whether any public health risk assessments or hazard mitigation plans had been developed in view of the chemical’s 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,” he said.
El-Rufai requested a response or designated contact within the NSA’s office for further engagement and copied the correspondence to the heads of NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
Separately, the former governor recently alleged that he had listened to an intercepted telephone conversation involving Ribadu, claiming it suggested plans by security operatives to arrest him — an act he acknowledged would be unlawful but said reflected practices he believes are routinely deployed by authorities.
