The Office of the National Security Adviser has dismissed claims that it imported a dangerous chemical known as thallium sulphate from Poland. The reaction came after former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-rufai, disclosed on that opposition figures had received information suggesting that about 10 kilograms of the toxic substance were brought into the country by the agency.
He said he had written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, asking for an explanation regarding the alleged purchase.
In his letter, El-Rufai described thallium compounds as very harmful substances that are colourless and without smell. He expressed worry about possible risks to public safety and called for openness about the matter.
He also asked for details about why the chemical was allegedly obtained, who would use it, the company that supplied it, and whether proper approval was secured.
Other concerns raised included the quantity and strength of the substance, how it would be stored, and whether agencies such as the the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control were involved in any review or monitoring process.
Reacting, a senior official from ONSA dismissed the claims during a chat with Vanguard. The official further said that the allegations are baseless, stressing that the agency did not procure the toxic substance as claimed.
The former Kaduna governor, who has repeatedly accused Tinubu’s administration of going after oppostion figures and has vowed to appear before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on Monday.