Suspected IED Blast at Bayelsa State Secretariat: No Casualties as Police Arrest Suspect

Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, Investigative Journalist at Select Media Africa

Nigeria — In the early hours of Wednesday, February 11, 2026, a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, triggering a swift security response and temporary disruption of official activities. The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the incident, reassuring the public that no casualties or property damage were recorded. TheStar +1According to a statement by the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, the device exploded around 6:00 a.m. within the government complex, prompting an immediate deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to secure the scene. Officers quickly contained the situation, cordoned off the area, and identified an additional unexploded device which was safely rendered inert. TheStar +1 In connection with the incident, a 60-year-old man identified as Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area has been arrested. He is currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department and is expected to be charged in court upon conclusion of investigations. TheCable +1the Bayelsa State Government temporarily suspended work at the secretariat for four hours as a precautionary measure, affecting more than 6,000 civil servants while security agencies conducted thorough sweeps of the premises. Access roads to the secretariat and the Government House were also restricted during the operation. Authorities have since declared that normalcy has been restored and urged residents to remain calm and continue with lawful activities. Nigerian News Today this incident comes amid ongoing national concerns about security threats involving explosive devices, and follows recent reports of similar threats in other parts of the country. Nigerian security forces have consistently underscored their commitment to maintaining safety and preventing further incidents. Thepledge.ngSourcesDaily Post Nigeria – Bomb explosion hits Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex Daily PostThe Whistler – Police Confirm Bomb Explosion at Bayelsa Secretariat The Whistler NewspaperThe Cable – Explosion rocks Bayelsa secretariat, police arrest 60- year-old suspect TheCableTheStar Nigeria – Bomb explosion hits Bayelsa secretariat TheStarNigerianEye – Bomb explosion rocks Bayelsa Secretariat Nigerian News TodayTHEWILL News Media – Suspected IED Explosion Rocks Bayelsa Secretariat thewillnews.com

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Afilawos Magana Sur

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Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

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