Workers and visitors reportedly scampered for safety after an alarm was raised about an explosion.
The incident occurred at about 6:00 a.m., before civil servants resumed work for the day.
As news of the development spread, some workers who later arrived at the secretariat reportedly abandoned their offices out of fear, before operatives of the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other tactical teams cordoned off the premises.
The secretariat, located along the Ovom axis of the Yenagoa–Mbiama Road near the Bayelsa State Government House, is usually busy during working hours.
In response to the scare, the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, reportedly directed that operations be suspended for the day as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that one suspect had been arrested in connection with the explosion and is currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, in a statement, said the suspect would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
He said:“The Bayelsa State Police Command wishes 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 Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other tactical teams to the scene.
“On arrival, operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit swiftly contained the explosion. The area was immediately cordoned off and, upon detailed search, one unexploded IED was identified and rendered safe.
“No lives were lost and no property was destroyed. One Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old male from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident.
“He is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
“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.”
