Panic erupted at the Bayelsa State Civil Service Secretariat on Wednesday after a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated within the complex, prompting the immediate evacuation of workers and visitors.
Eyewitnesses said a 60-year-old man, identified as Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, claimed responsibility for the explosion and threatened to detonate additional devices allegedly planted around the premises.
Elijah, who reportedly described himself as a contractor owed money for an unspecified job by the state government, allegedly warned that further explosions would occur if he was not paid immediately. He was said to have gained access to the Secretariat as early as 6 a.m. and detonated a device near the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei.
Following the incident, the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Sawyer, ordered the evacuation of staff after consultations with security chiefs to enable a comprehensive sweep of the complex by security operatives.
The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, led the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other tactical teams to the scene.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, said the explosion occurred at about 6:00 a.m. on February 11, 2026, within the State Secretariat Complex.
He stated that the EOD team swiftly contained the situation, cordoned off the area and conducted a detailed search, during which one unexploded IED was discovered and safely defused. He added that no lives were lost and no property was destroyed in the incident.
According to the police, Elijah was arrested at the scene and is currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department. He is expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
Security operatives have since secured the complex, while authorities assured members of the public that the situation is under control and normal activities have resumed.
