ONSA Denies El-Rufai’s Claim of Toxic Chemical Import, Refers Matter to DSS for Probe
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has denied allegations by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, that it imported a highly toxic chemical substance from Poland.
El-Rufai had written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, seeking clarification over what he described as the alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate by ONSA.
In his letter, the former governor raised concerns about public safety, transparency, and regulatory compliance, noting that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances.
He requested details on the intended purpose of the chemical, supplier identity, import permits, total quantity and concentration, storage arrangements, regulatory coordination with agencies such as NAFDAC and NCDC, as well as any public-health risk assessments or mitigation plans.
El-Rufai stressed that his inquiry was made “in good faith” to ensure due process and maintain public trust in national institutions.
In a letter dated February 11, 2026, and signed by Brigadier-General OM Adesuyi on behalf of the NSA, ONSA firmly denied the allegation.
The letter stated that the office had “neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so.”
It further disclosed that the allegation had been referred to the Department of State Services (DSS) for a comprehensive investigation.
According to ONSA, El-Rufai and any other individuals with relevant information would be invited by the DSS to provide evidence to assist in establishing the facts and ensuring due diligence.
Online publication TheCable reported that the letter, which was initially rejected, was eventually delivered on Sunday to a security aide of the former governor.
As of press time, El-Rufai had not publicly responded to ONSA’s denial or the referral of the matter for investigation.
The development adds a fresh layer of intrigue to the unfolding exchange, with attention now shifting to the DSS investigation to determine the veracity of the claims. Read More
