NSA Must Clarify Toxic Chemical Procurement – Nasir El-Rufai

Nasir El Rufai

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has asked the Office of the National Security Adviser to clarify information available to opposition figures regarding the alleged procurement of a toxic chemical substance. He recently had his say via his social media handle, and Nigerians have been reacting.

According to him, there is a clear need for transparency because the substance is regarded as dangerous and tightly regulated.

Emphasising that the request was not made in bad faith, he added that openness would strengthen trust in public institutions.

“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.

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.

There are six areas where I wants explanations, including he intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate, the identity of the supplier and whether the importation followed due authorisation, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and 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.

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.

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,” it partly read.