JUST IN: El-Rufai queries NSA Nuhu Ribadu over alleged importation of toxic chemical
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, seeking clarification over an alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilogrammes of thallium sulphate by his office
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, El-Rufai said information available to opposition leadership indicated that the highly toxic substance was reportedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.
He described thallium salts as “highly toxic and tightly controlled substances,” stressing the need for transparency in the interest of public safety, democratic accountability and public trust.
El-Rufai asked the NSA to disclose the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
He also requested details of the supplier and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit.
The former governor further sought clarification on the total quantity and specific form or concentration of the substance procured or being procured.
He asked for information on the storage and security arrangements for the material upon arrival in the country.
El-Rufai equally demanded to know what regulatory oversight and coordination were in place with 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 agencies.
He also queried whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans had been developed, “given the compound’s extreme toxicity”.
The former governor said the inquiry was made in good faith to ensure that due process, safety standards and transparency were observed.
“Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed,” he wrote.
El-Rufai requested a formal response or a point of contact within the NSA’s office for further engagement.
He copied the correspondence 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 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
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