Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State governor, has called on National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu to provide clarity regarding reports that the NSA’s office imported thallium sulphate, a highly toxic substance.
In the letter titled, ”Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate’, El-Rufai raised some questions which he asked Ribadu to respond to.
The letter reads; ”Dear National Security Adviser. I hope this message finds you well.’ ”I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland.
”Given that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, I believe it is important for public safety, democratic accountability and for maintaining public trust to confirm the following details:
”1. The intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate.
”2. The supplier identity and whether the material was imported under an existing chemical or defence permit.
”3. The total quantity and specific form or concentration being procured or already procured.
”4. The storage and security arrangements for the maserial upon arrival ”5. The regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.
”6. Whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.
”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 the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.”
The development comes after reactions trailed El-Rufai’s comment of tapping Ribadu’s telephone.