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El-Rufai queries NSA Ribadu over alleged importation of Thallium Sulphate
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Seeks details on purpose, permits, storage and regulatory oversight
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Copies NAFDAC, NCDC, ADC and PDP in formal letter
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, requesting clarification over the alleged procurement of a highly toxic substance, Thallium Sulphate.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, El-Rufai said he was acting “as a concerned citizen” to seek explanations regarding reports that about 10 kilograms of the chemical were sourced from a supplier in Poland.
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Titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” the letter raised concerns about public safety, regulatory compliance and transparency.
“I 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,” El-Rufai stated.
He noted that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, stressing that public trust requires openness.
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“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,” he wrote.
El-Rufai requested clarification on the intended use of the chemical, import permits, quantity and concentration, storage and security arrangements, and regulatory coordination with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
He also asked whether any public health risk assessments or hazard mitigation plans had been developed.
“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,” he added.
The former governor further requested a response or a designated contact person within the NSA’s office for continued engagement.
For transparency, he copied the correspondence to the Director-Generals of NAFDAC and NCDC, as well as the National Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress and the People’s Democratic Party.