El-Rufai escalates war with Nuhu Ribadu

Alleges import of odourless poison from Poland by NSA

.Submit evidence of toxic chemical procurement to DSS, Ribadu asks ex-Kaduna gov

.Group condemns El-Rufai over alleged ‘poisonous gas claim, backs NSA

Idibia Gabriel, Kaduna and Emeka Agu Jnr, Lagos

Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s war with National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, has taken a new twist, as the former governor has accused NSA Ribadu of importing Thallium sulfate toxic, tasteless, odourless, and colourless crystalline powder, historically used as a potent rodenticide and insecticide.

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 extreme toxicity, with a human fatal dose as low as 8–12 mg/kg, it is tightly restricted or banned in many countries”, he stated.

Former Kaduna State Governor has therefore written to the Office of the National Security Adviser, seeking clarification over the alleged procurement of a toxic chemical substance, Thallium Sulphate, reportedly 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 by ONSA, 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 Sulphate” allegedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.

The letter, titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” raised a number of 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 emphasised that his inquiry was not intended 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 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His enquiry 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.

Meanwhile, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has directed Nasir el-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna state, to submit evidence of the alleged procurement of thallium sulphate to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

In a letter written by OM Adesuyi, a brigadier-general, on behalf of the NSA, and seen by an online medium, TheCable, dated February 13, 2026, Adesuyi wrote: “I have the honour to present the compliments of the National Security Adviser and to acknowledge receipt of Your Excellency’s correspondence received on 11 February 2026 requesting clarification regarding the alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The correspondence further indicated that information concerning the purported procurement is reportedly available to the political opposition leadership. In this regard, I am directed to respectfully convey that ONSA has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so.

However, I am further directed to state that the allegation has been formally referred to the Department of State Services for a comprehensive investigation. Your Excellency and other parties involved, who may possess relevant information relating to this claim 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.

“Please accept the assurances of the esteemed regards of the National Security Adviser.”

Relatedly, a coalition of concerned Nigerians has condemned the recent allegations by the former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, regarding the alleged importation of a poisonous substance by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The group described the claims as reckless, misleading and capable of undermining public confidence in national security institutions.

Addressing newsmen in Kaduna on Sunday, the group’s spokesman, Mr Victor  Bobai, said the allegations against the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, were inflammatory and not supported by verifiable facts.

Bobai said the NSA’s office had continued to operate with professionalism and focus amid prevailing security challenges in the country.

He urged Nigerians to rely on verified information and avoid narratives capable of generating panic or eroding trust in security agencies.

Also speaking, Malam Hamisu Malumfashi described Ribadu as being at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and organised crimes.

According to him, unsubstantiated claims and fear driven narratives could distract security agencies and weaken collective national resolve.

He called on the citizens to support institutions tasked with safeguarding lives and property rather than amplify allegations that may destabilise the polity.

Another member of the group, Mr Adeosun Olayinka, said public discourse should focus on accountability, transparency and due process.

Olayinka added that while the citizens have the right to raise concerns, such concerns must be grounded in evidence and handled responsibly in the interest of national stability.

The coalition announced plans to mobilise volunteers to promote fact checking and public education as part of efforts to counter misinformation.

It reaffirmed support for the Office of the National Security Adviser and urged Nigerians to remain united in strengthening governance and security.

The former governor had earlier made claims alleging the importation of a toxic substance by ONSA, an allegation the group insisted should not be taken seriously without credible proof.

The coalition emphasised the need for restraint in public commentary on sensitive security matters, warning that misinformation could have far-reaching implications for national peace and stability.