The Presidency has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of deliberately attempting to stir political tension nationwide in a bid to deflect attention from corruption allegations linked to his tenure in Kaduna State.
In a statement issued Monday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, alleged that El-Rufai’s recent public criticisms of the Federal Government were calculated moves aimed at destabilising the political environment and portraying himself as a victim.
According to the Presidency, the former governor’s actions are driven by two primary motives: to create anxiety and unrest within the polity through what it described as deliberate misinformation, and to divert public attention from what it termed “serious domestic issues” in Kaduna.
“The truth is that Mallam El-Rufai has clear intentions behind his recent outbursts,” the statement read. “First, to generate political tension and undermine the government through misleading narratives. Second, to distract from the corruption allegations he is facing in his home state.”
The Presidency further claimed that El-Rufai is attempting to elevate his local legal and political challenges to the national stage in order to attract sympathy and shield himself from accountability.
The accusations come amid heightened criticism by El-Rufai of the current administration’s handling of governance and national security matters.
In a recent development, the former governor reportedly wrote to the Office of the National Security Adviser seeking clarification over the alleged procurement of a hazardous chemical substance, Thallium Sulphate.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, El-Rufai said he was acting “as a concerned citizen” in requesting details about the reported acquisition of approximately 10 kilograms of the toxic compound from a supplier in Poland.
Thallium sulphate is widely recognised as a highly poisonous substance historically used as a rodenticide and insecticide. Due to its extreme toxicity and potential health risks, its use and distribution are tightly regulated or banned in many countries.
In his correspondence, El-Rufai requested clarification on the intended purpose of the chemical, regulatory approvals obtained, storage and security arrangements, and coordination with relevant health and environmental authorities. He also sought assurances regarding public safety measures and risk assessments tied to the substance’s procurement.
As of press time, there has been no official response from the Office of the National Security Adviser regarding the letter.
The exchange marks a new chapter in the increasingly public disagreement between the former governor and the Federal Government, adding further strain to Nigeria’s already charged political atmosphere.