By Patrick Idowu

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has replied former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, over his allegation that the agency imported a toxic chemical from Poland, telling him to expect an invitation from the Department of State Services (DSS), as the matter has been referred for investigation.

El-Rufai had written to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, claiming opposition leaders had information that ONSA procured about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate, a highly poisonous substance.

He requested clarification on the purpose, supplier, permits, quantity, storage arrangements and regulatory oversight, including involvement of agencies such as NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

In a response released to journalists on Sunday night, ONSA denied the allegation, stating it neither procured nor initiated any process to purchase thallium sulphate and had no intention of doing so.

The letter, signed by Brigadier-General O.M. Adesuyi on behalf of the NSA, said the allegation had been referred to the DSS for a comprehensive investigation, adding that El-Rufai and others with relevant information would be invited to provide evidence.

By Omoniyi David

Nine worshippers abducted during a midnight vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije, Utonkon in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State have been rescued unharmed, while a fresh abduction was reported along the Benue-Taraba border.

The freed victims, kidnapped a week ago, regained their freedom on Saturday following coordinated security operations by the Benue State Police Command and other agencies.

Two suspects, Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, were arrested on February 11 with ammunition, and further raids on February 14 recovered an AK-47 rifle and led to the arrest of two additional suspects.

Police said the operations directly pressured the criminal network, resulting in the safe release of the worshippers.

Meanwhile, tension persists along the Takum-Tor Donga-Katsina Road in Katsina-Ala LGA after a businesswoman and nine passengers were abducted on February 9 at Tse-De while travelling from Taraba State.

Families described the incident as traumatic, with no communication from the abductors.

Governor Hyacinth Alia praised security operatives for their swift response and urged continued collaboration with federal agencies, local vigilantes, and traditional leaders to protect communities.

By Patrick Idowu

The Department of State Services (DSS), has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, at the Federal High Court, Abuja, over alleged unlawful interception of communications.

The charges, dated 16 February 2026, stem from a televised Arise TV interview in which El-Rufai reportedly admitted that he and associates intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

El-Rufai faces alleged violations under Sections 12(1) and 27(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

The DSS said the alleged acts endangered public safety, national security, and created apprehension among the public.