The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has firmly denied allegations that it procured “thallium sulphate,” stating that neither the Office nor any government agency under its supervision purchased or initiated any process to acquire the substance.
The rebuttal follows claims attributed to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, who had reportedly requested clarification over the alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of the chemical.
In a formal response delivered to el-Rufai’s residence on Sunday, ONSA categorically refuted the claim and disclosed that the matter has been referred to the Department of State Services (DSS) for investigation.
Excerpts from the correspondence read:
“I have the honour to present the compliments of the National Security Adviser and to acknowledge receipt of Your Excellency’s correspondence received on 11 February 2026 requesting clarification regarding the alleged procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). The correspondence further indicated that information concerning the purported procurement is reportedly available to the political opposition leadership. In this regard, I am directed to respectfully convey that ONSA has neither procured nor initiated any process for the purchase of such material, and has no intention of doing so. However, I am further directed to state that the allegation has been formally referred to the Department of State Services for a comprehensive investigation. Your Excellency and other parties involved, who may possess relevant information relating to this claim will be duly invited by the Service to provide any evidence that may assist in an in-depth investigation, establishing the facts and ensuring due diligence.”
The letter concluded with a formal expression of respect:
“Please accept the assurances of the esteemed regards of the National Security Adviser.”
