The police have arrested a 60-year-old aggrieved contractor over an explosion suspected to have been caused by dynamite at the Bayelsa State Civil Service Secretariat Complex.
According to workers at the complex, the suspect, identified as Pentecost Elijah, an indigene of Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, allegedly claimed responsibility for the explosion. He reportedly threatened to detonate additional explosive devices allegedly planted within the complex if the state government failed to immediately pay him for contracts executed for the state.
Sources said the suspect gained access to the Secretariat complex as early as 6:00 a.m. and detonated an explosive device near the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Nimibofa Ayawei, causing panic among security personnel and workers in the area.
Following the incident, the State Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, after consultations with heads of security agencies, directed civil servants to vacate their offices to enable the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, the Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to conduct a thorough search of the premises.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, personally led the EOD Unit, Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to the scene.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Bayelsa State Police Command, DSP Musa Mohammed, said the police responded swiftly to contain the situation.
“On arrival at the scene, operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit swiftly secured the area. The premises were cordoned off, and during a detailed search, one unexploded Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was identified and safely defused by EOD operatives. No lives were lost and no property was destroyed.
“Mr. Pentecost Elijah was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident and is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department. The suspect will be charged to court accordingly.
“The situation is under control, and normalcy has been restored. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and continue their lawful activities while the suspect faces the law,” he stated.
