As security personnel rushed in to secure the area and evaluate the situation, the explosion, which happened at around 6:00 am, was said to have temporarily disrupted official events.
No one was killed, and no property was damaged, according to a statement released to reporters by CP Iyamah, the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police.
According to the Bayelsa State Police Command, there was a possible IED explosion inside the State Secretariat Complex today, February 11, 2026, at around 6:00 a.m. As soon as possible, I led the Special Drone Unit, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit, and other tactical teams to the area,” he stated.
“Once the Explosive Ordinance Unit personnel arrived on the scene, they quickly contained the explosion.”
He also mentioned that another explosive device had been found and neutralized, and that the area was again secure.
After a thorough investigation, EOD personnel found one unexploded IED and made it safe, Iyamah stated. “The area was immediately cordoned off.” No one died, no property was damaged.
“A 60-year-old man named One Pentecost Elijah was taken into custody at the scene in relation to the incident. He was from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State.”
Currently being questioned at the State Criminal Investigation Department, he said, the suspect will face charges in court after the investigations are over.
“I want to let you know that everything is under control and that things are moving back to normal. “The police commissioner also advised the public to maintain their composure and carry on with their legal business operations.”
The Bayelsa State Government reportedly imposed a brief four-hour work stoppage at the secretariat as a precaution after the event.
The decree, which was issued by Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, the Head of Service, had an impact on more than 6,000 state employees.
Security officers, including members of the anti-bomb squad, blocked off access roads to Government House and the State Secretariat while safety protocols and investigations were conducted.
It was later reported by authorities that the crisis had been completely controlled and that regular operations had resumed.
