Suspect in Custody After IED Explosion at Bayelsa State Secretariat

Operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command have arrested Pentecost Elijah, 60, in connection with an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex. The incident occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The command spokesperson, Musa Mohammed, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Iya Edebor, immediately led the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, the Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to the scene. The operatives contained the blast, cordoned off the area, and identified another unexploded device, which was safely rendered inert.

Investigation Underway, Normalcy Restored

According to Mr. Mohammed, Pentecost Elijah, a resident of Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State, was apprehended at the scene and is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department. He will be charged in court following the investigation.

Authorities confirmed that there were no fatalities, injuries, or property destruction resulting from the explosion. The Bayelsa State Police Command reassured the public that normal operations had resumed within the Secretariat Complex.

The swift containment of the blast and the recovery of the unexploded device underscore the preparedness of the state’s security units to respond to high-risk incidents. The police also emphasized continued vigilance and urged the public to report any suspicious activities to prevent further threats.

The arrest of Pentecost Elijah marks the first significant development in the ongoing investigation, which is expected to reveal the motive behind the attack and any potential accomplices. Security experts note that timely intervention by the Explosive Ordinance Unit was critical in preventing a more severe incident.

Residents and workers in the Secretariat have been advised to cooperate with authorities as the investigation continues, ensuring both personal safety and the protection of public infrastructure.

The Bayelsa State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, safeguarding lives, and upholding public confidence in the state’s security architecture.

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