Isaac Samuel
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, seeking clarification over reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) procured a highly toxic substance from Poland.
El-Rufai disclosed this in a post on his verified X account on Sunday, stating that he formally requested details regarding the alleged importation of thallium sulphate, a chemical compound widely regarded as extremely poisonous and subject to strict controls.
According to him, information available to opposition political leaders suggested that about 10 kilogrammes of the substance were recently brought into the country by the security office.
Describing thallium sulphate as “odourless and colourless,” El-Rufai expressed concern over the implications of its alleged procurement and called for transparency on the matter.
In the letter, he reportedly asked the NSA to clarify the purpose for which the chemical was acquired, the identity of the foreign supplier, the intended end-user and whether the transaction was authorised under applicable chemical, defence or import control regulations.
He also sought details regarding the quantity and concentration obtained, as well as measures put in place for storage, handling and security.
The former governor further requested information on 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 notified or involved in assessing potential risks.
El-Rufai maintained that prompt clarification would help sustain public confidence in national institutions.
