A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was detonated early Wednesday morning at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex.
The development triggered panic, a swift security response and a temporary disruption of official activities.
The explosion occurred at about 6:00 am, prompting immediate intervention by the Bayelsa State Police Command and other security agencies.
Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Iyamah, assured residents that no casualties were recorded and no property was damaged.
He said, “The Bayelsa State Police Command wish to inform the general public of a suspected IED explosion which occurred today, 11th February 2026, at about 0600hrs within the State Secretariat Complex. I immediately led the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other Tactical Teams to the scene.
“On arrival at the scene, the operatives of the Explosive Ordinance Unit swiftly contained the explosion.
“The area was immediately cordoned off and upon detailed search, one unexploded IED was identified by EOD operatives and was rendered safe. No life lost, no property destroyed. One Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old man from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State, was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident.
“He is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and upon conclusion, the suspect will be charged in court. Let me inform you that the situation is under control and normalcy has been restored. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and continue with their lawful business activities.”
Following the explosion at the Bayelsa Secretariat Complex, the Bayelsa State Government ordered a temporary four-hour suspension of work as a precautionary measure, affecting more than 6,000 state employees. The directive was issued by the Head of Service, Dr Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer.
Security operatives, including the anti-bomb squad, immediately cordoned off access roads leading to both the State Secretariat and the Bayelsa State Government House while investigations and safety protocols were carried out.
Authorities have since confirmed that the situation has been fully contained, with normal activities gradually resuming at the Secretariat complex.
