From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
There was palpable tension in Yenagoa on Wednesday after an explosive device was detonated by the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit of the Nigerian Police.
According to eyewitnesses, the device was planted at the Bayelsa State Secretariat, triggering tension among workers, who were later asked to go home and return the following day.
The Anti-Bomb squad of the Nigerian Police swiftly intervened and brought the situation under control.
In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed the discovery of an unexploded Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the secretariat.
Mohammed said one Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old man from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, was arrested at the scene and alleged to be the mastermind behind the incident.
The suspect is currently under investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
The police assured the public that the situation is under control, and no life was lost or property destroyed in the incident.
reads: “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 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 indentified 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”
