ABUJA, Nigeria — A decomposing body of a man was discovered on Sunday, September 7, 2025, morning in a car parked outside the annexe gate of the National Assembly complex in Abuja, raising new questions about security lapses at one of Nigeria’s most protected facilities.
The body, found in a red Peugeot 406 with registration number BWR-577 BF at about 9:00 a.m., was initially taken to the National Assembly Clinic before being transferred to Asokoro General Hospital, where doctors confirmed the man dead.
His identity has not yet been established, though multiple sources said he was believed to be one of the labourers working at a construction site within the annexe.
Police Confirm Investigation
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday. Its spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said officers had been deployed immediately 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 motor vehicle with registration number BWR-577 BF,” Mrs Adeh said in a statement.
“The body was promptly evacuated to Asokoro General Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed that it was already in an advanced state of decomposition.”
Mrs Adeh added that the commissioner of police had ordered a discreet investigation into the matter and directed officers to intensify efforts to establish the man’s identity.
“Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” she noted.
A Pattern of Security Breaches
The incident highlights ongoing security challenges at the National Assembly complex, despite its status as the seat of Nigeria’s legislature and one of the most guarded facilities in the country.
In recent years, thieves have repeatedly breached security within the premises.
There had been previous news reports that manhole covers had been stolen inside the complex, a situation that drew criticism over the vulnerability of the site.
Other cases have included vehicle thefts and missing valuables such as television sets, air conditioners, electrical cables, and wires from offices.
Although CCTV footage has been reviewed in some cases, culprits have rarely been apprehended.
The National Assembly is guarded by a mix of security outfits, including the Nigeria Police Force, the State Security Service (SSS), and the Sergeant-at-Arms, yet repeated breaches continue to expose systemic weaknesses.
