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 and managed.”
But in a statement by Brig.-Gen O.M. Adesuyi, on behalf of Ribadu, the ONSA acknowledged receipt of El-Rufai’s correspondence and denied the allegation.
“ONSA has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so,” the statement signed by Mr Adesuyi, stated.
The ONSA said the claim by El-Rufai had been referred to the DSS for a comprehensive investigation, and that El-Rufai and other would be invited by the service to provide evidence.
“Your Excellency and other parties involved, who may possess relevant information relating to this claim, will be duly invited by the Service to provide any evidence that may assist in an in-depth investigation, establishing the facts and ensuring due diligence,” the statement read.
A coalition of concerned Nigerians has condemned Nasir El-Rufai’s allegations as “reckless and misleading,” warning that such claims undermine public confidence in national security.
Speaking in Abuja, group spokesperson Victor Bobai dismissed the assertions as inflammatory and unsupported by verifiable facts.
Supporting this view, Malam Hamisu Malumfashi argued that fear-driven narratives only serve to distract security agencies and weaken national resolve.
Group member Adeosun Olayinka emphasized that while citizens have a right to voice concerns, they must do so responsibly and with evidence to protect national stability.
To combat misinformation, the coalition announced plans to mobilize volunteers for fact-checking and public education.
Reaffirming their support for the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the group urged Nigerians to disregard the unproven claims and remain united in the interest of national peace.
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