“WE JUST HEARD A LOUD SOUND AND SAW PEOPLE RUNNING” — EYEWITNESS RECOUNTS BAYELSA SECRETARIAT EXPLOSION

There was panic at the Bayelsa State Secretariat in Yenagoa early Wednesday morning following an explosion caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), forcing workers and visitors to flee the complex.

The incident occurred during office hours, triggering confusion across the secretariat. One civil servant, who was inside the building at the time told our correspondent that she initially heard a loud sound but did not immediately realise what had happened until she saw people running for safety.

According to her, the situation escalated when her colleague rushed into the office shouting and urging everyone to leave. Workers reportedly ran out in different directions, with some falling in the process, while others abandoned personal belongings, including phones and bags.

The witness said that when she stepped outside, she saw a large crowd of staff already gathered outside the premises. She later observed that several louvre glass panels had been shattered by the blast, although she did not mentioned the exact office where the explosion occurred.

Police have since arrested a 60-year-old man, identified as Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area in connection with the incident.

According to sources, the suspect allegedly claimed responsibility, stating that he carried out the act over unpaid money he said was owed to him by the government. He reportedly alleged that after years of writing memos and not getting a satisfactory response, he became frustrated and decided to plant the device. He also allegedly claimed to have placed other devices in strategic locations, further heightening fear among workers.

However, no casualties were recorded in the incident.
Security personnel, including police officers and soldiers, were immediately deployed to the area, and access to the secretariat was restricted.

As a precautionary measure, the Head of Civil Service directed workers to vacate the premises. Staff with urgent duties were advised they could return later in the day, while others were asked to remain at home pending further information.

Calm has since been restored, and investigations are ongoing.

Reported by Bright Okpo