Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has formally requested the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to provide clarity on reports suggesting that opposition figures had information regarding the alleged procurement of a toxic chemical substance.

In a letter dated January 30, 2026, addressed to the NSA in Abuja, El-Rufai sought “clarification and reassurance” over reports that the office planned to import thallium sulphate from abroad. He shared a copy of the letter on his official X account on Sunday.

The former governor noted that thallium sulphate is highly dangerous and strictly regulated, emphasizing the importance of transparency in such matters.

“I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to political opposition leaders about the procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly sourced from Poland,” the letter stated.

El-Rufai outlined six areas requiring explanation, including the intended purpose and end-use of the chemical, the identity of the supplier, whether due authorization was obtained, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and regulatory oversight in coordination with NAFDAC, NCDC, and other relevant public-health and environmental agencies.

He also inquired whether public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans had been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.

Emphasizing that his request was made in good faith, El-Rufai argued that openness would strengthen public trust in national institutions and encouraged ongoing engagement with the NSA’s office.

“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed. Public confidence in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed,” he added.

For thoroughness, El-Rufai noted that copies of the correspondence were sent to other relevant authorities. “I am copying this correspondence to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), both of which play essential roles in chemical safety and public-health preparedness,” he said.

The request comes amid heightened tensions surrounding national security oversight, including a recent incident in which security operatives reportedly attempted to detain El-Rufai at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Earlier, in an interview on Arise TV, El-Rufai claimed he learned of the alleged plan to arrest him upon his return through a leaked conversation involving the NSA’s phone. “Ribadu made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks that they’re the only ones who listen to calls. But we also have our ways. He made the call and gave the order that they should arrest me,” he stated.

The letter reflects broader calls for transparency and accountability in sensitive federal procurements, particularly during election cycles when opposition actors closely monitor national security actions.

As of the filing of this report, the NSA’s office had not issued a public response to the letter.