A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated early Wednesday at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, prompting an emergency response from security agencies and temporarily disrupting official activities.

The explosion occurred at about 6:00 a.m., according to the Bayelsa State Police Command. Commissioner of Police CP Iyamah confirmed that no casualties or property damage were reported.

He said, “The Bayelsa State Police Command wishes to inform the public of a suspected IED explosion today, 11th February 2026, at about 0600hrs within the State Secretariat Complex.

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“I immediately led the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to the scene.”

CP Iyamah noted that the EOD operatives contained the blast and discovered one unexploded device, which was safely rendered inert. A 60-year-old man, Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, was arrested at the scene and is currently under interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department. Authorities said he will be charged in court after investigations conclude.

Following the incident, the Bayelsa State Government ordered a four-hour temporary closure of work for over 6,000 state employees as a precaution. Access roads to the State Secretariat and the Government House were cordoned off while security teams conducted safety checks. The situation has since been fully contained.

The state government and police have reassured residents that normalcy has been restored and urged the public to remain calm and continue with lawful activities.

The incident comes amid heightened concerns about explosives in Nigeria, following a 2024 bomb explosion in Bassa community, Shiroro LGA, Niger State, which killed one child and injured four others when they reportedly played with an abandoned device.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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