El-Rufai made the claim on Sunday in a post on , where he attached a letter he said was addressed to the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.
“As part of my civic responsibility, I have written to the NSA seeking clarification on reports that his office imported thallium sulphate, a highly dangerous toxin. It is a serious concern if any individual or institution is importing poison—particularly one that is odourless and colourless,” El-Rufai stated.
In the letter, he wrote:
“Dear National Security Adviser, I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing as a concerned citizen to request clarification and reassurance regarding information available to opposition political leaders about the alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser, reportedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.
Considering that thallium salts are extremely toxic and subject to strict regulation, it is important, in the interest of public safety, democratic accountability, and maintaining public trust, to clarify the following:
-
The intended purpose and specific use of the imported thallium sulphate.
-
The identity of the supplier and whether the importation was conducted under an existing chemical or defence permit.
-
The total quantity and precise form or concentration of the substance procured.
-
The storage and security measures put in place upon its arrival.
-
The regulatory oversight and coordination with agencies such as NAFDAC, NCDC, and other relevant public health and environmental bodies.
-
Whether any public health risk assessments or mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.
El-Rufai emphasized that his inquiry was made in good faith, stressing that adherence to due process, safety standards, and transparency is essential. He added that public confidence in national institutions is reinforced when potential risks are openly clarified and responsibly managed.”