- He shared a copy of the correspondence on his verified X account on Sunday
- He also asked about the exact quantity and concentration, storage plans, and the nature of regulatory coordination with agencies
- El-Rufai claimed he became aware of an alleged arrest plan through information obtained
Former Nasir El-Rufai has formally asked the Office of the National Security Adviser to address reports circulating among opposition leaders about the planned importation of a hazardous chemical substance.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and sent to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, Eko Hot Blog reports that the ex-Kaduna State governor said he was requesting “clarification and reassurance” over claims that the security office intended to procure about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from a supplier in Poland.
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He shared a copy of the correspondence on his verified X account on Sunday.
El-Rufai described thallium salts as highly toxic and subject to strict regulation, arguing that transparency was necessary in matters involving substances of such risk.
According to the letter, he sought detailed information on the purpose of the chemical, the specific end use, the identity of the supplier, and whether all required approvals were obtained before the reported importation.
He also asked about the exact quantity and concentration, storage plans, and the nature of regulatory coordination with agencies such as National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
In addition, the former governor queried whether any public health risk assessments or safety mitigation strategies had been prepared, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.
He stressed that his inquiry was made in good faith and not intended to cast aspersions, maintaining that openness would reinforce public trust in national institutions.
El-Rufai also asked the security office to designate a contact person for further engagement and confirmed that copies of his letter were forwarded to relevant regulatory bodies.
The development follows a recent incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where security operatives reportedly attempted to arrest him.
In an interview on Arise TV Morning Show, El-Rufai claimed he became aware of an alleged arrest plan through information obtained from what he described as a leaked conversation involving the National Security Adviser.
The situation unfolds amid ongoing national discussions about security management, electoral politics, and the need for institutional oversight.
As of the time this report was filed, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued a public response to the letter.
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