Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – February 11, 2026 — An early morning explosion suspected to have been caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) disrupted normal activities at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa on Wednesday, sparking panic among civil servants, residents, and passersby in the area.
The blast occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m., prompting an immediate response from security agencies who swiftly cordoned off the premises, restricted movement in and out of the complex, and launched a thorough security sweep. Officials confirmed that the incident did not result in any loss of life, injuries, or structural damage to buildings within the secretariat.
The Bayelsa State Police Command, in a detailed statement released shortly after the explosion, confirmed the detonation of a suspected IED within the secretariat environment. Commissioner of Police CP Iyamah personally led the response operation, which involved the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, the Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams.
“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,” the statement read. “I immediately led the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other Tactical Teams to the scene.”
Upon arrival, EOD operatives successfully contained the explosion. A subsequent search of the area led to the discovery of one unexploded IED, which was promptly identified and safely rendered harmless by the anti-bomb squad. Authorities emphasised that the quick intervention prevented any further harm or destruction.
In connection with the incident, security operatives arrested a 60-year-old man identified as Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The suspect was apprehended at the scene and is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department. The police commissioner stated that upon conclusion of investigations, the suspect will be charged to court.
“Let me inform you that the situation is under control and normalcy has been restored,” CP Iyamah added. “Members of the public are advised to remain calm and continue with their lawful business activities.”
In the immediate aftermath of the blast, the Bayelsa State Government announced a temporary suspension of official activities at the secretariat for a period of four hours. The directive, issued by the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, affected more than 6,000 civil servants who were instructed to stay away from the complex as a precautionary measure while comprehensive security checks were conducted.
Major roads leading to the State Secretariat and adjacent Government House were blocked by security personnel, including members of the anti-bomb squad and other tactical units. Surveillance teams also carried out extensive sweeps of surrounding buildings and perimeters to rule out the possibility of additional explosive devices or related threats.
By mid-morning, authorities declared the environment safe following the successful neutralisation of the unexploded device and completion of the security assessment. Normal operations at the secretariat began to resume gradually, with civil servants allowed to return to their duty posts under heightened security protocols.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about security vulnerabilities at critical government infrastructure in Bayelsa State, a region that has experienced sporadic incidents of militancy, oil-related agitation, and criminal activities in the past. While no group has claimed responsibility for the explosion, the use of an IED has drawn parallels to tactics previously employed by non-state actors in the Niger Delta.
State officials and security commanders have assured residents that the situation remains fully under control and that investigations are ongoing to determine the motive, origin of the device, and any possible accomplices. The arrest of the suspect is seen as an early breakthrough in the probe.
The Bayelsa State Government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or items to security agencies without delay. Enhanced security measures are expected to remain in place at the secretariat and other key installations in the coming days as part of efforts to deter further incidents.
No further disruptions to government functions or public services have been reported since the area was cleared. The swift containment of the explosion and absence of casualties have been widely commended as evidence of improved response capabilities by the state’s security architecture.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges of maintaining security in the oil-rich but often volatile Niger Delta region. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure while ensuring that those responsible for such acts are brought to justice.
