Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to clarify reports alleging that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) procured a highly toxic substance known as thallium sulphate.
This was conveyed in a letter titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” in which El-Rufai raised concerns over the reported importation of approximately 10 kilograms of the chemical from a supplier in Poland.
In the letter, the former governor said he was seeking clarification as a concerned citizen, stressing the need for transparency, public safety, and accountability.
According to him, given the highly toxic nature of thallium salts and their strict regulation globally, it is imperative to ascertain key details surrounding the alleged procurement.
El-Rufai outlined several areas requiring clarification, including the intended purpose and end-use of the substance, the identity of the supplier, and whether due regulatory permits were obtained.
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He also requested information on the quantity and concentration of the chemical, storage and security arrangements, as well as regulatory oversight involving agencies such as NAFDAC, NCDC, and other relevant public health and environmental bodies.
Furthermore, he called for disclosure on whether any public health risk assessments or hazard mitigation measures had been put in place, considering the extreme toxicity of the substance.
El-Rufai emphasised that his inquiry was made in good faith, noting that public confidence in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are addressed transparently.
The development follows recent tensions between the former governor and the NSA, particularly after El-Rufai alleged that Nuhu Ribadu orchestrated an attempt to have him arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE Television, El-Rufai claimed that the directive was revealed through a source who allegedly intercepted Ribadu’s phone communication.
He further alleged that government agencies routinely monitor calls without court orders, asserting that similar methods were used to obtain the information.
The former governor, who has repeatedly accused the current administration of political persecution, has also pledged to honour an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday following a summons issued while he was abroad.
He reiterated his readiness to cooperate with the commission, maintaining his stance on the issues raised.