BREAKING: El-Rufai writes Ribadu, seeks clarification over alleged toxic chemical import

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has formally written to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, demanding clarification over reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) allegedly imported approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate, a substance globally recognised for its extreme toxicity.

In a letter dated and titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” El-Rufai said his inquiry was made in good faith as a concerned citizen seeking transparency on a matter that potentially touches on public safety and democratic accountability.

Key Questions Raised

In the correspondence, El-Rufai requested detailed clarification on:

The intended purpose and end-use of the alleged imported chemical.

The identity of the supplier and whether the importation was conducted under an existing chemical or defence permit.

The total quantity, form, and concentration of the substance procured.

Storage and security arrangements upon arrival in Nigeria.

Regulatory coordination with agencies such as NAFDAC, NCDC, and other public health and environmental authorities.

Any public health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation strategies developed in light of the compound’s toxicity.

He stressed that thallium salts are tightly controlled substances internationally due to their poisonous nature and argued that public trust in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are addressed transparently.

> “Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed,” the letter stated.

Controversy Deepens After Phone-Tapping Claim

The letter comes on the heels of El-Rufai’s recent explosive allegation that Ribadu ordered his arrest upon arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE Television, the former governor claimed Ribadu masterminded an attempt to have him detained. He further alleged that the instruction was uncovered after Ribadu’s phone was tapped by an unnamed source.

> “The government believes it is the only one that listens to calls, but we also have our ways. He made the call and gave the order,” El-Rufai claimed during the broadcast.

The remarks have intensified political tensions, particularly as El-Rufai has repeatedly accused the current administration of targeting him in what he describes as a witch-hunt.

EFCC Invitation Looms

Meanwhile, El-Rufai has confirmed that he will honour an invitation extended to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The invitation was reportedly issued while he was outside the country, with the former governor expected to appear before the commission on Monday.

The unfolding developments signal a deepening rift within Nigeria’s political elite, raising fresh concerns over governance transparency, institutional trust, and the widening gulf between key power actors.

As Nigerians await official clarification from the NSA’s office, the matter has quickly evolved from a private correspondence into a national conversation about accountability at the highest levels of security administration.