JUST IN: El-Rufai queries NSA Nuhu Ribadu over alleged importation of poisonous chemical
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has written to the Nationwide Safety Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, searching for clarification over an alleged procurement of roughly 10 kilogrammes of thallium sulphate by his workplace
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, El-Rufai mentioned info accessible to opposition management indicated that the extremely poisonous substance was reportedly sourced from a provider in Poland.
He described thallium salts as “extremely poisonous and tightly managed substances,” stressing the necessity for transparency within the curiosity of public security, democratic accountability and public belief.
El-Rufai requested the NSA to reveal the meant function and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
He additionally requested particulars of the provider and whether or not the fabric was imported underneath an current chemical or defence allow.
The previous governor additional sought clarification on the overall amount and particular kind or focus of the substance procured or being procured.
He requested for info on the storage and safety preparations for the fabric upon arrival within the nation.
El-Rufai equally demanded to know what regulatory oversight and coordination had been in place with the Nationwide Company for Meals and Drug Administration and Management (NAFDAC), the Nigeria Centre for Illness Management (NCDC), and different related public-health and environmental businesses.
He additionally queried whether or not any public-health danger assessments or hazard-mitigation plans had been developed, “given the compound’s excessive toxicity”.
The previous governor mentioned the inquiry was made in good religion to make sure that due course of, security requirements and transparency had been noticed.
“Public confidence within the integrity of nationwide establishments is strengthened when potential dangers are brazenly addressed and managed,” he wrote.
El-Rufai requested a proper response or a degree of contact inside the NSA’s workplace for additional engagement.
He copied the correspondence to the director-general of NAFDAC, the director-general of NCDC, in addition to the nationwide chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Celebration (PDP).