By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Peter Onyekachukwu
A recent incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport has sparked fresh tension between former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), raising concerns over transparency and public safety.
El-Rufai had earlier alleged that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, ordered his arrest in connection with the airport episode, a claim that has generated debate within political circles and heightened public interest.
Amid the controversy, El-Rufai has formally written to the Office of the National Security Adviser, seeking clarification over the alleged importation of about 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate, a substance widely recognised for its extreme toxicity.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and acknowledged on February 11, the former governor said he was acting as a concerned citizen demanding details about the purpose, legality and safety protocols surrounding the reported procurement of the chemical.
Thallium sulphate, historically used as a rodenticide and insecticide, is considered highly dangerous. Odourless, tasteless and colourless, it poses serious health risks, with experts noting that even small quantities can be fatal depending on exposure levels. Due to these risks, its production and distribution are restricted or banned in several countries.
El-Rufai requested information on the intended use of the substance, the identity of the supplier, the concentration imported and the regulatory approvals secured prior to its entry into the country.
He also sought assurances regarding storage and security arrangements, as well as coordination with agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to mitigate any potential public health threats.
Maintaining that his inquiry was not politically motivated, El-Rufai stressed that transparency and strict adherence to safety standards were essential to sustaining public confidence in national institutions.
The letter was copied to relevant regulatory authorities and political stakeholders, further amplifying national attention on the matter.
As scrutiny intensifies over both the airport incident and the alleged chemical importation, observers say the development highlights the delicate balance between national security operations and the need for openness in matters with potential public health implications.