Group dismisses El-Rufai’s allegations against NSA

From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

A coalition of civic-minded Nigerians has strongly condemned what they described as reckless, politically motivated statements by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The group urged the public to focus on verified facts, and national security rather than fall prey to fear-driven narratives.

Addressing journalists, Victor Mathew Bobai said El-Rufai’s allegations against the Office of the National Security Adviser were “misleading, inflammatory, and capable of eroding public trust in security institutions.”

He emphasized that the NSA, under Nuhu Ribadu, continues to operate with professionalism, discipline, and a laser focus on protecting lives and stabilizing the nation amid persistent security challenges.

Supporting this view, Hamisu Danbaba Malumfashi described Ribadu as being “at the frontline of Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, banditry, and organized crime.” He warned that fear-mongering-fueled distractions could weaken collective resolve, urging Nigerians to support security agencies rather than amplify claims intended to provoke panic.

Adeosun Olayinka added that Nigerians must critically evaluate El-Rufai’s record in office, citing past concerns about reckless debt accumulation, human rights violations, and alleged patronage networks. He stressed that the current wave of allegations should not divert public attention from the need for accountability, transparency, and due process.

The group further announced plans to mobilize civic volunteers to counter misinformation, emphasizing fact-checking, public education, and awareness as essential tools to protect the credibility of national institutions. They urged Nigerians to reject fear-based political distractions and to remain united behind genuine efforts to strengthen governance, security, and national stability.

Full Statement from Concerned Nigerians
We, as concerned Nigerians, categorically condemn the reckless, politically motivated statements by former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding the alleged importation of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser under Nuhu Ribadu.

Let us be clear: El-Rufai’s theatrics are not about citizen concern. They are a desperate attempt to distract Nigerians from real issues, a political spectacle designed to undermine national security institutions.

The notion that the NSA would import a “colourless, odourless poison” and that Nigerians should panic is absurd, irresponsible, and dangerously sensationalist. By going public with unverified claims, El-Rufai has turned falsehood into political theater—not public service.

“Where was this moral courage when innocent Nigerians suffered under his governance in Kaduna? Reckless debt, human rights violations, and alleged patronage of violent actors festered unchecked, yet today he claims moral authority to lecture the nation on toxins?

“The hypocrisy is staggering.
El-Rufai’s narrative is a frantic attempt to substitute fear for substance. While the NSA and security agencies work tirelessly to secure lives and property, he is busy generating panic and undermining confidence in institutions that are literally protecting Nigerians.

“We call on all citizens to see through this distraction. No Nigerian should take these poisonous gas claims seriously. El-Rufai is descending into political irrelevance, and his attempts to weaponize fear are failing.
“We affirm our unwavering support for NSA Nuhu Ribadu and the security apparatus, whose work is grounded in facts, discipline, and national security priorities — not in baseless accusations or political grandstanding.

“El-Rufai’s poisonous gas narrative is a tissue of lies, a political distraction, and an insult to every Nigerian who values security, governance, and truth. We will continue to expose these falsehoods and ensure attention remains on real threats, genuine accountability, and sustainable national progress.”