Sunday February 15, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has accused the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), headed by NSA Nuhu Ribadu, of procuring approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate, reportedly from a supplier in Poland.
El-Rufai made the allegation in a letter to the ONSA, seeking clarification and reassurance regarding the information available to the political opposition leadership about the substance.
In the letter, the former governor noted that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances. He said his letter was to seek details on the procurement, while highlighting public safety, democratic accountability, and the need to maintain public trust.
El-Rufai asked for the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate; the supplier identity and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit; the total quantity and specific form or concentration being procured or already procured; the storage and security arrangements for the material upon arrival; the regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies; and 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,” he said.
In a post on X, he said, ” It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one.”
(TheGuardian)