National Assembly complex

A decomposing body was discovered on Sunday morning in a vehicle parked near the annexe gate of Nigeria’s National Assembly complex in Abuja, raising fresh concerns over security lapses at one of the country’s most heavily guarded facilities.

The body, found inside a red Peugeot 406 with registration number BWR-577 BF around 9:00 a.m., was said to belong to a man believed to be a labourer at a construction site within the National Assembly premises.

Authorities said the remains were first taken to the National Assembly Clinic before being transferred to the Asokoro General Hospital, where doctors confirmed him dead.

Police Confirm Incident

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the discovery in a statement issued on Monday. Spokesperson Josephine Adeh said officers responded swiftly after receiving a distress call.

“The Divisional Police Officer (DPO), National Assembly Division, immediately responded to the call and, upon arrival, discovered the deceased inside a red Peugeot 406,” Mrs Adeh said.

She added that the corpse was already in an advanced state of decomposition when recovered. The Commissioner of Police has since ordered a discreet investigation and directed efforts to establish the deceased’s identity.

Security Concerns at National Assembly

The discovery has revived questions about the adequacy of security at the National Assembly complex. Despite being guarded by the Nigeria Police Force, State Security Service (SSS), and the Sergeant-at-Arms, the facility has experienced recurring breaches.

Past incidents have included theft of vehicles, manhole covers, office equipment, and electrical fittings. Despite security cameras and multiple layers of protection, perpetrators have often escaped without detection.

Analysts say the latest incident underscores the urgent need to strengthen surveillance, improve coordination among security agencies, and restore confidence in the National Assembly’s security framework.