60-Year-Old Suspect Arrested As Bomb Explosion Rocks Bayelsa Secretariat

An explosive device believed to be improvised went off early Wednesday morning at the Bayelsa State Secretariat in Yenagoa.

It was gathered that a 60-year-old man was arrested at the location in connection with the explosion which happened around 6:00 a.m. on February 11, 2026.

The spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, DSP Musa Muhammed, said officers quickly moved in after receiving reports of the incident.

“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.

“The Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor psc, IICFIP, foosi, 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 live lost, no property destroyed. 

“One Pentecost Elijah, ‘m’ 60 year old from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State, was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident. 

“He is currently under going interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and upon conclusion the suspect will be charged to court.

“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 incident, the Bayelsa Government directed workers to stay away from the secretariat for four hours as a precaution.

The order was issued by the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer.

Security personnel, including members of the anti-bomb squad, blocked roads leading to the State Secretariat and Government House while investigations and safety checks were carried out.

See the photos below:

KanyiDaily also reported how explosion rocked the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kaduna, leaving several people injured and at least one dead.