Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai

has accused National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s office of importing fatally toxic thallium sulphate into the country.

“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 kilogrammes of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland,” Mr El-Rufai said in a letter addressed to Mr Ribadu on January 30. The former governor shared a copy of the letter on his X page on Sunday.

“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,” Mr El-Rufai said.

The former governor asked the NSA to answer questions concerning the intended purpose of importing the chemical and the safety of the country.

Mr El-Rufai asked, “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.”

He added, “The storage and security arrangements for the material upon arrival. The regulatory oversight and coordination are in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies. Whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.”

According to Mr El-Rufai, this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed. 

He said this would also strengthen public confidence in the integrity of national institutions by ensuring potential risks are openly addressed and managed.

The NSA is yet to respond to Mr El-Rufai’s claim contained in the published letter. Mr Ribadu could not be reached immediately for comments.

Mr El-Rufai’s statement on Thallium Sulphate importation by Mr Ribadu’s office comes two days after the former Kaduna Governor said the NSA’s telephone has been tapped and he listens to his calls.