Bomba Dauda
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser (NSA), seeking clarification over an alleged procurement of about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the NSA at the Three Arms Zone, Abuja, El-Rufai said the inquiry was prompted by information available to opposition political leaders indicating that the chemical substance was procured from a supplier in Poland.
Thallium sulphate is known to be a highly toxic and tightly regulated chemical compound, often associated with serious health and environmental risks if improperly handled.
El-Rufai said the request was made in the interest of public safety, democratic accountability and transparency, stressing the need for the government to reassure Nigerians on the purpose and handling of the substance.
He requested clarification on the intended use and end purpose of the imported chemical, the identity of the supplier, and whether the importation was carried out under an existing chemical or defence permit.
The former governor also asked for details on the quantity and concentration of the substance procured, as well as the storage and security arrangements put in place upon its arrival in the country.
In addition, he sought information on regulatory oversight and coordination with agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and other relevant public health and environmental bodies.
El-Rufai further queried whether any public health risk assessments or hazard mitigation plans had been developed, given the extreme toxicity of thallium compounds.
According to him, the inquiry was made in good faith to ensure that due process, safety standards and transparency were observed, adding that public confidence in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and properly managed.
He also requested a response or a designated point of contact within the NSA’s office for further engagement, noting that the matter had generated concern among Nigerian citizens in the opposition.
The letter was copied to the Director-General of NAFDAC, the Director-General of NCDC, as well as the national chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
