El-Rufai Accuses NSA Ribadu of Procuring Toxic Chemicals

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai has alleged that Nuhu Ribadu’s Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) procured 10kg of thallium sulphate from Poland. In a formal letter, El-Rufai demanded urgent clarification on why the ONSA would acquire such a highly toxic and tightly controlled substance.

The former governor described the chemical as an odorless, colorless, and extremely dangerous toxin. He emphasized that the importation of such poisons requires high levels of transparency to ensure public safety and democratic accountability.

El-Rufai’s inquiry seeks details on the chemical’s intended end-use and the identity of the Polish supplier. He specifically questioned whether the procurement followed legal defense permits and if health agencies like NAFDAC were involved in the oversight.

The letter also asks for information regarding the storage and security arrangements for the substance upon its arrival in Nigeria. El-Rufai expressed concern over the potential for misuse and the lack of a public-health risk assessment or hazard-mitigation plan.

Raising the alarm on social media, El-Rufai stated, “It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one.”

The ONSA has not yet officially responded to the claims, which have sparked intense debate among political opposition leaders.

The allegations highlight growing tensions and concerns over the procurement of hazardous materials by national security institutions.