El-Rufai Seeks Explanation From NSA Nuhu Ribadu Over Alleged Importation of Odourless Poison From Poland
The Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has written to the Office of the National Security Adviser, seeking clarification about the alleged procurement of a toxic chemical, thallium sulfate, reportedly by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
In a letter addressed to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, dated January 30, 2026, and received on February 11, 2026, El-Rufai said he was acting “as a concerned citizen” in requesting details about what he described as the procurement of “approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulfate” allegedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.
According to Science Direct, thallium sulfate is a highly toxic, tasteless, odourless, and colourless crystalline powder, historically used as a potent rodenticide and insecticide. Due to its extreme toxicity, with a human fatal dose as low as 8–12 mg/kg, it is tightly restricted or banned in many countries.
It mimics potassium in the body, causing severe nervous system damage, hair loss, and potential death.
The letter, titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” raised several questions about the purpose, regulatory compliance, and safety arrangements surrounding the reported acquisition.
“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 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland,” El-Rufai wrote.
Highlighting the hazardous nature of the substance, he noted, “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.”
He then listed six specific areas where he sought clarification: “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. The storage and security arrangements for the material upon arrival. The regulatory oversight and coordination 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.”
El-Rufai emphasized that his inquiry was not meant to inflame tensions but to ensure due process and transparency.
“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed. Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed,” he stated.
He further requested continued engagement from the National Security Adviser’s office, writing, “If possible, I would appreciate a response or a point of contact within your office for further engagement to reassure those of us that are Nigerian citizens in opposition.”
For transparency, El-Rufai said he copied the correspondence to the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), as well as the National Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
His inquiry comes amid claims that the National Security Adviser, Ribadu, ordered his arrest, leading to a recent altercation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
It also comes amid mixed reactions after El-Rufai claimed that an individual had tapped the NSA’s phone and confirmed Ribadu’s involvement in the attempt to have him arrested.
