El-Rufai accuses Tinubu’s NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, of importing ‘dangerous toxic chemicals’ from Poland
By KEMI KASUMU
“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.”
Former Governor of Kaduna State in Nigeria, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has called on the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), led by Nuhu Ribadu, to clarify reports alleging that the agency imported a highly toxic chemical, thallium sulphate, from Poland.
In a statement posted on X on Sunday, El-Rufai disclosed that he had formally written to the National Security Adviser (NSA) seeking explanations over what he described as the procurement of a “dangerous toxin.”
According to him, information available to opposition political leaders indicated that ONSA recently imported about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from a foreign supplier.
Describing the substance as colourless and odourless, El-Rufai said its alleged importation raised serious safety concerns. He noted that thallium compounds are extremely hazardous and are subject to strict international regulations.
In his letter titled: “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate”, the former Kaduna State governor requested clarification on the purpose of the chemical’s procurement, the intended end-user, and the identity of the supplying company. He also asked whether the importation was authorised under relevant chemical or defence permits.
The letter read, “Dear National Security Adviser. I hope this message finds you well.
“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.
“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:
“1. The intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
“2. The supplier identity and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit.
“3. The total quantity and specific form or concentration being procured or already procured.
“4. The storage and security arrangements for the maserial upon arrival
“5. The regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.
“6. 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 stressed that public confidence in national institutions required a prompt and transparent response to the allegations.
As of press time, ONSA had not issued an official statement addressing the claims.
See screenshots of the letter below:
