Yenagoa — Panic swept through the Bayelsa State Secretariat on Wednesday morning following a suspected explosion that prompted the mass evacuation of civil servants.
Security operatives quickly responded to the incident, ensuring the safety of workers and visitors. Initial reports suggested the explosion may have been a false alarm, with recovered devices described as low-capacity firecrackers incapable of causing structural damage.
However, the Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was involved. In a statement, Deputy Superintendent Musa Mohammed disclosed that a 60-year-old man, Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was arrested at the scene and is undergoing interrogation.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, immediately deployed the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to secure the area. Upon a detailed search, one unexploded IED was safely rendered harmless. No lives were lost, and no property was damaged,” the statement said.
The Head of Civil Service directed the suspension of operations for the day as a precautionary measure while authorities continued their investigation. The police urged the public to remain calm, assuring that the situation is under control and that the suspect will face prosecution after interrogation.
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