|
Listen to article
|
The Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, has dared former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai to submit evidence of the alleged procurement of thallium sulphate to the Department of State Services, DSS, for further investigation.
The Eastern Updates reports that thallium sulphate is a highly toxic, colourless and odourless compound that can kill humans in small doses.
El-Rufai had said the substance was reportedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.
Recall that El-Rufai had accused the ONSA, under Nuhu Ribadu of procuring thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical compound, and has demanded urgent clarification over the alleged transaction.
Responding, the ONSA denied the allegation, asking El-Rufai to supply any evidence he has to the DSS for a thorough investigation.
According to TheCable, a copy of the response sent to El-Rufai’s Abuja address was rejected by the security operatives on duty.
The security operatives reportedly told the dispatch clerk that the head security was not on the ground and that they did not have an idea of when El-Rufai would visit.
Meanwhile, it was eventually delivered on Sunday and the head of security signed and received it on behalf of el-Rufai.
The response, written by Brigadier-General, OM Adesuyi, on behalf of the NSA was reportedly dated February 13, 2026.
Read also: Everybody Must File Tax Returns By March 31 – FG
Adesuyi wrote: “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.
“Please accept the assurances of the esteemed regards of the National Security Adviser.”
The Federal Government has issued a warning against illegal recruitment of Nigerians into foreign armed conflicts, citing alarm over citizens being deceived into combat zones under false pretenses.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Sunday it was troubled by mounting evidence that Nigerians have been lured with promises of lucrative employment, educational opportunities and migration benefits only to find themselves deployed to war zones.
Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said authorities were deeply concerned about citizens recruited through deceptive tactics. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses grave concern over the rising and alarming cases of Nigerian citizens being illegally recruited to participate in foreign armed conflicts,” the statement said.
Media investigations and security reports suggest several Nigerians were allegedly recruited under false promises and subsequently coerced into signing military service contracts, according to the ministry.
“Recent media investigations and security reports indicate that Nigerian nationals were allegedly recruited under false pretences, including promises of lucrative employment, security jobs, educational opportunities, or migration incentives,” the statement said.
Some individuals were reportedly sent to combat areas after being misled and pressured into agreements they did not fully comprehend, the ministry added.
Recruitment methods reportedly included offers of high monthly salaries, signing bonuses and expedited citizenship pathways. “In several instances, victims are reportedly compelled to sign contracts in foreign languages without adequate legal guidance, and their travel documents are allegedly confiscated upon arrival,” the ministry stated.
The government alleged that intermediaries facilitate travel arrangements using tourist or other non-military visa categories to obscure the true purpose of recruitment.
The Federal Government warned citizens that participation in foreign armed conflicts outside approved frameworks could carry serious legal and security consequences.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria unequivocally warns all citizens against engaging in or accepting any offer that involves participation in foreign armed conflicts. Such actions not only endanger lives but may also violate Nigerian and international laws governing mercenary activities and foreign enlistment,” the ministry said.
Nigerians who choose to participate in foreign conflicts without official government approval do so at their own risk, the statement emphasized.
To address the situation, the ministry disclosed that authorities were working with domestic and international partners to investigate the matter and enhance public awareness about dangers associated with illegal recruitment.
“Nigerian missions abroad have also been directed to strengthen consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to Nigerian nationals,” the statement said.
The government appealed to parents, guardians, community leaders and educational institutions to educate young Nigerians about risks posed by deceptive foreign recruitment schemes.
The ministry advised citizens to verify overseas employment or academic opportunities through official government channels and report suspicious recruitment activities to relevant authorities.
