By Henry Oseremen Ihimekpen | February 11, 2026
A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa early Wednesday, causing fear among workers and residents.
The incident caused fear among workers and residents in the area. Security agencies quickly moved in to secure the premises and restore order.
The explosion happened around 6:00 a.m. Officials said it was caused by a suspected Improvised Explosive Device planted within the secretariat environment.
Movement in and out of the complex was restricted as security teams carried out safety checks.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that no one was injured and no building was damaged.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah, addressed the situation in a statement released shortly after the incident. He said security units were immediately deployed to the scene.
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, the Bayelsa State Government announced a temporary suspension of work at the secretariat for four hours.
The directive affected more than 6,000 civil servants who were asked to stay away from the complex while security checks were completed. The order was issued by the Head of Service, Dr Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, as a precautionary step.
Security operatives, including the anti-bomb squad, blocked major roads leading to the State Secretariat and the Government House. Surveillance teams also conducted a sweep of surrounding buildings to ensure there were no additional threats.
However, Authorities later confirmed that the environment had been declared safe and normal activities were gradually restored
