460
By Lizzy Chirkpi
A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated in the early hours of Wednesday at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, triggered a swift security response, leading to temporary suspension of official activities.
The blast occurred around 6:00am, prompting operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command and other security units to immediately secure the area.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah, said no life was lost and no property was damaged, adding that the situation had been brought under control.
“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,” the police boss stated.
He explained that officers from the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit quickly contained the blast and conducted a thorough sweep of the premises.
“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,” CP Iyamah said.
The commissioner further disclosed that a suspect was apprehended at the scene.
“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,” he added.
Assuring residents of public safety, CP Iyamah urged calm, noting that normalcy had been restored and security remained firmly in control.
In response to the incident, the Bayelsa State Government ordered a temporary four-hour closure of offices within the secretariat complex as a precautionary step, affecting more than 6,000 state workers.
The directive was issued by the Head of Service, Dr Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer.
Meanwhile, security agencies, including the anti-bomb squad, sealed off major access routes to the State Secretariat and the Bayelsa State Government House as investigations and safety checks continued.
Authorities have assured the public of tight surveillance while efforts are ongoing to uncover the motive behind the attack.