A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated early Wednesday morning at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, prompting an emergency response from security agencies.
The explosion occurred at approximately 6:00 am, causing temporary disruption of official activities within the complex.
Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Iyamah, assured residents that no casualties were recorded and no property was damaged.
“The Bayelsa State Police Command wishes 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 Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to the scene,” the statement read.
According to the police commissioner, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit swiftly secured the area and identified one unexploded IED, which was safely defused.
“No life was lost and no property was destroyed. One suspect, identified as Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old man from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident,” Iyamah stated.
The suspect is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be charged in court upon completion of investigations.
Authorities said the situation has been fully contained and normalcy restored, urging members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities.
Following the incident, the Bayelsa State Government ordered a temporary four-hour suspension of work as a precautionary measure affecting thousands of civil servants. The directive was issued by the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer.
Security operatives, including anti-bomb units, cordoned off access roads leading to the Secretariat Complex and the Government House during safety operations.
Officials confirmed that the area is now secure.
