Ribadu directs El-Rufai to submit evidence on toxic chemical purchase to DSS

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has asked Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, to provide evidence supporting his allegation that the agency procured a dangerous toxic substance, directing him to forward any proof to the Department of State Services (DSS) for investigation.

El-Rufai had earlier alleged in a January 30, 2026 letter addressed to Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser, that ONSA obtained thallium sulphate — a highly toxic, colourless and odourless chemical capable of causing death even in small quantities. He claimed the substance was sourced from a supplier in Poland.

In its response, ONSA denied the claim, stating it neither procured nor initiated any process to acquire the chemical and had no intention of doing so.

The office added that the allegation had been formally referred to the DSS for a comprehensive probe and invited El-Rufai and any other individuals with relevant information to submit evidence to aid the investigation.

The reply, dated February 13, 2026, was signed by Brigadier-General O.M. Adesuyi on behalf of the NSA.

According to sources, an earlier attempt to deliver the letter to El-Rufai’s Abuja residence was unsuccessful after security personnel reportedly declined to receive it, citing the absence of their head of security.

The correspondence was eventually delivered on Sunday and acknowledged on his behalf.

Separately, El-Rufai claimed he had listened to an intercepted phone conversation allegedly involving Ribadu.

Speaking during a programme on Arise Television, he alleged that “someone tapped” the NSA’s phone and that the recording suggested plans to arrest him.