Explosion Hits Bayelsa State Secretariat, Police Arrest Suspect
Activities at the Bayelsa State Civil Service Secretariat were brought to a halt on Wednesday after a bomb exploded within the premises.
The suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) reportedly detonated around 6:00 a.m., before workers arrived for the day’s duties. As news of the blast spread, staff who later came to the complex hurriedly left the area amid fears of another explosion.
Security operatives, including the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams, quickly moved in and sealed off the secretariat complex. The facility, located along the Ovom axis of the Yenagoa–Mbiama Road and near the Bayelsa State Government House, is usually busy during official working hours.
Following the incident, the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, reportedly directed workers to suspend operations for the day as a precaution to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the explosion and announced the arrest of one suspect in connection with the incident. The individual is currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, said the suspect would be charged in court after investigations are concluded.
In a statement, the police said the explosion occurred at about 6:00 a.m. on February 11, 2026, within the State Secretariat Complex. The Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, led EOD personnel and other tactical teams to the scene, where the situation was quickly contained.
During a thorough search of the area, operatives discovered another unexploded IED, which was safely neutralised.
Police confirmed that no lives were lost and no property was damaged. The suspect, identified as Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old man from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was arrested at the scene.
Authorities say the situation is now under control and normal activities have resumed. The public has been urged to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.
