The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has announced that the Department of State Services (DSS) will summon former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to substantiate his claim that thallium sulphate—a highly toxic, colorless, and odorless compound capable of causing death in small doses—was imported into Nigeria.
ONSA issued this statement on Sunday, firmly denying the allegation that the dangerous chemical had entered the country.
In a letter addressed to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, dated January 30, 2026, El-Rufai alleged that the political opposition leadership possessed information indicating that approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate had been procured from a supplier in Poland. He forwarded copies of this letter to both the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), citing their crucial roles in chemical safety and public health preparedness.
El-Rufai described thallium salts as highly toxic and tightly controlled substances and requested that Mr. Ribadu clarify the intended purpose and end use of the chemical, the identity of the supplier, and whether its importation was authorized under existing chemical or defense permits. He further sought information on the total quantity and specific concentration obtained, storage and security measures upon arrival, and the regulatory oversight provided by NAFDAC, NCDC, and other relevant agencies. Additionally, El-Rufai inquired whether any risk assessments or hazard mitigation plans were in place, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.
This inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed, El-Rufai wrote, emphasizing that public trust in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are addressed openly.
However, in a statement signed by Brigadier General OM Adesuyi on behalf of NSA Ribadu, the ONSA confirmed receipt of El-Rufai’s correspondence but categorically denied the allegations. ONSA has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so,” the statement read.
The ONSA also disclosed that it had referred El-Rufai’s claim to the DSS for thorough investigation. Your Excellency and other parties involved, who may possess relevant information, will be duly invited by the Service to provide any evidence that may assist in an in-depth investigation, establishing the facts and ensuring due diligence, the statement added.
Meanwhile, a coalition of concerned Nigerians described El-Rufai’s claim as reckless, misleading, and potentially damaging to public confidence in national security institutions. The group’s spokesperson, Mr. Victor Bobai, labeled the allegations as inflammatory and lacking verifiable evidence. Another member, Malam Hamisu Malumfashi, warned that unsubstantiated claims and fear-driven narratives could distract security agencies and undermine national unity. Mr. Adeosun Olayinka stressed that while citizens have the right to raise concerns, such concerns must be evidence-based and handled responsibly in the interest of national stability.
The coalition announced plans to mobilize volunteers for fact-checking and public education campaigns to combat misinformation. It also expressed support for the ONSA and called on Nigerians to remain united in strengthening governance and security. The group urged that El-Rufai’s allegation should not be taken seriously without credible proof and cautioned that public commentary on sensitive security matters could have far-reaching consequences for national peace and stability.
