El-Rufai Writes NSA Ribadu, Seeks Clarification on Alleged Importation of Poison

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, seeking clarification over reports alleging that the NSA’s office recently imported thallium sulphate into Nigeria.

El-Rufai said on Sunday that as part of his duty as a citizen, he found it necessary to formally request an explanation regarding the alleged importation of the chemical substance, which he described as a “very dangerous toxin.”

“As part of my duty as a citizen, I wrote to the NSA to seek clarification on reports about the importation by his office of thallium sulphate, a very dangerous toxin. It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one.”

According to him, the matter is of public concern, particularly given that thallium sulphate is known to be an odourless, colourless, and tasteless poison. He stressed that the importation of any poisonous substance into the country especially one with such properties raises serious safety questions.

Recall that in 2006, Alexander Litvinenko in the United Kingdom was poisoned with polonium, and in 2018, Sergei Skripal was poisoned with Novichok. Both cases, involved toxic substances and attracted global attention.