The Presidency has responded strongly to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his claim that the Office of the National Security Adviser planned to procure a toxic substance.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, addressed to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, El-Rufai requested clarification regarding alleged plans to import about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from Poland. He shared the letter publicly on his X account, stating that he was seeking reassurance over reports available to opposition figures.
However, the Presidency dismissed the allegation, insisting that there was no government procurement or importation of thallium sulphate through the Office of the National Security Adviser.
In a statement posted on X, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, accused El-Rufai of attempting to mislead the public. He claimed that El-Rufai had already received a response from the NSA’s office and challenged him to make it public.
Ajayi further alleged that the former governor’s actions were aimed at stirring political tension and diverting attention from corruption allegations he is currently facing in Kaduna State. He argued that El-Rufai was trying to portray himself as a victim while nationalising his personal political challenges.
The Presidency also referenced ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commissionover alleged financial misconduct amounting to ₦432 billion during his tenure.
El-Rufai, who recently returned from Egypt, has confirmed he will honour invitations from both anti-graft agencies. His lawyer, Ubong Esop Akpan, said he would appear before the EFCC as scheduled.
In his letter, El-Rufai described thallium sulphate as a highly toxic and tightly regulated substance and asked for details about its intended use, supplier identity, regulatory approvals, storage plans, and coordination with agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
He maintained that his inquiry was made in good faith to promote transparency and public safety.
Meanwhile, a coalition of concerned Nigerians criticised El-Rufai’s claims, describing them as reckless and capable of causing public panic. The group insisted that allegations of such magnitude should be backed by credible evidence and handled through proper institutional channels.
As of the time of reporting, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued a public response to the letter.
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