Following claims by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding the importation of thallium sulphate—a highly toxic compound—the ONSA has directed the DSS to invite him for clarification.
In a statement issued Sunday, ONSA dismissed the allegations of the chemical’s entry into the country but stressed the need for a formal investigation into the source of the information.
The controversy stems from a January 30 letter sent by El-Rufai to NSA Nuhu Ribadu, in which he claimed that opposition leaders had procured the substance from Poland.
El-Rufai stated that copies of the warning were also sent to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to trigger necessary safety measures.
El-Rufai who described thallium salts are “highly toxic and tightly controlled substances,” asked 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.
He 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.
In addition, the former governor requested 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 an
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