Ribadu drags El- Rufai to DSS over claim of importation of dangerous chemicals

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has said the Department of State Services, DSS will invite former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai to prove his claim that thallium sulphate, a highly toxic, colourless and odourless compound capable of killing humans in small doses was imported into the country.

ONSA said while denying claim that the deadly chemical was imported into the country in a statement on Sunday.

El-Rufai had in a letter to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu dated 30 January 2026 claimed information the political opposition leadership has information that he has procured approximately 10 kilogrammes of thallium sulphate from a supplier in Poland.

He added that he also copied the letter to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), both of which, he said, play essential roles in chemical safety and public-health preparedness.

El-Rufai who described thallium salts are “highly toxic and tightly controlled substances,” asked Mr Ribadu to clarify the intended purpose and end-use of the substance; the identity of the supplier and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit.

The former Kaduna governor also asked the NSA to identify the total quantity and specific form or concentration procured; the storage and security arrangements upon arrival; the regulatory oversight in place with NAFDAC, the NCDC and other public-health and environmental agencies.

He also asked Ribadu to clarify whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans had been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.

“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed,” Mr El-Rufai wrote. “Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.”

But in a statement by Brigadier General by OM Adesuyi, on behalf of Ribadu, the ONSA acknowledged receipt of El-Rufai’s correspondence and denied the allegation.

“ONSA has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so,” the statement signed by Mr Adesuyi, stated.

The ONSA said the claim by El-Rufai had been referred to the DSS for a comprehensive investigation, and that El-Rufai and other would be invited by the service to provide evidence.

“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,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, a coalition of concerned Nigerians has described the claim by El-Rufai as reckless, misleading and capable of undermining public confidence in national security institutions.

Speaking in Abuja, the spokesperson of the group, Mr Victor Bobai, said the allegations against were inflammatory and not supported by verifiable facts.

Also speaking, Malam Hamisu Malumfashi said the unsubstantiated claims and fear driven narratives could distract security agencies and weaken collective national resolve.

Another member of the group, Mr Adeosun Olayinka, said 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 also said it will mobilise volunteers to promote fact checking and public education as part of efforts to counter misinformation.

The Coalition declared support for the Office of the National Security Adviser and urged Nigerians to remain united in strengthening governance and security.

It added that the allegation that ONSA imported toxic substance by El-Rufal should not be taken seriously without credible proof while warning that public commentary on sensitive security matters and misinformation could have far-reaching implications for national peace and stability.