El-Rufai Demands Answers From NSA Ribadu Over Alleged Importation Of ‘Odourless Poison’ Thallium Sulphate From Poland

Abuja, Nigeria– Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has formally written to the Office of the National Security Adviser seeking urgent clarification over the alleged procurement of a highly toxic chemical substance, Thallium Sulphate, reportedly imported by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

In a letter addressed to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, at the Office of the National Security Adviser, 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 the procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate allegedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.

According to ScienceDirect, Thallium sulphate 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.

The compound mimics potassium in the human body, causing severe nervous system damage, hair loss, and potentially death when ingested or absorbed in sufficient quantities.

The letter, titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” raised several questions regarding the purpose, regulatory compliance, and safety arrangements surrounding the reported acquisition.

El-Rufai wrote, “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.”

Highlighting the hazardous nature of the substance, he noted that thallium salts are tightly controlled worldwide and demanded transparency from the national security office.

“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,” El-Rufai wrote.

He then listed six 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 emphasised that his inquiry was not intended to inflame political tensions but to ensure due process, public safety and transparency in government operations.

“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 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 disclosed that he copied the correspondence to the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, as well as the national chairmen of the African Democratic Congress and the People’s Democratic Party.

The former governor’s enquiry comes amid heightened political tension following claims that Ribadu allegedly ordered his arrest, an allegation that reportedly led to a recent confrontation involving security officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The development also follows mixed reactions after El-Rufai publicly claimed that an individual had tapped the NSA’s phone and confirmed Ribadu’s alleged involvement in attempts to have him arrested — a claim that has further deepened the rift between both political figures.