Presidency Condemns El-Rufai Over Toxic Chemical Allegations

The presidency of Nigeria has condemned former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding allegations of his involvement in the purchase of toxic chemicals, specifically thallium sulfate. In a letter dated January 30, 2026, addressed to the Office of the National Security Adviser, El-Rufai requested clarification and reassurance about reports concerning his alleged procurement of the chemical abroad.

The presidency emphasized the need for transparency to maintain public trust but dismissed the allegations, stating that there was no plan to procure or import thallium sulfate. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Sundai Ajayi, accused El-Rufai of attempting to create political tension and claimed that El-Rufai had already received a response from the NSA's office.

Ajayi further asserted that El-Rufai's actions were politically motivated, maintaining that the challenges posed by El-Rufai did not affect President Bola Tinubu or the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.