The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has asked former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to present any evidence in his possession regarding the alleged procurement of a poisonous substance for investigation by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Online Reporters gathered that the substance in question is thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical known to be colourless and odourless, and capable of causing death even in small quantities.
How The Allegation Emerged
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, El-Rufai reportedly wrote to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, alleging that about 10 kilograms of the chemical had been sourced from a supplier in Poland. He requested clarification over what he described as an alleged procurement deal.
However, in its response, ONSA denied any involvement in the purchase of the substance. The office stated that it had neither procured nor initiated any process to procure thallium sulphate and has no intention of doing so.
Matter Referred To DSS
According to the reply letter dated February 13, 2026, and signed by Brigadier-General O.M. Adesuyi on behalf of the National Security Adviser, the allegation has been formally referred to the DSS for a comprehensive investigation.
The letter indicated that El-Rufai and any other individuals with relevant information concerning the claim would be invited to provide evidence to aid the investigation and establish the facts.
Part of the letter read that ONSA “has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so,” while assuring that due diligence would be observed in investigating the claim.
Initial Delivery Attempt Failed
It was further gathered that an earlier attempt to deliver the response letter to El-Rufai’s Abuja residence was unsuccessful. Security personnel on duty reportedly declined to receive the letter, citing the absence of the head of security and uncertainty about the former governor’s availability.
The letter was later successfully delivered on Sunday, with the head of security reportedly receiving and signing for it.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no further public reaction from El-Rufai regarding the latest development.