At least 160 people killed in church collapse in Nigeria

A church in the southern Nigerian city of Uyo collapsed yesterday while a large number of worshippers were praying, killing at least 160 people.

The accident happened at Reigners Bible Church in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, according to AP. Hundreds of people were inside the church when metal beams and the ceiling collapsed, crushing worshippers.

Accident scene. Photo: Twitter

According to a source, the church is still open to welcome parishioners, although it is under construction.

An atmosphere of confusion and panic enveloped the scene of the accident with many cries and screams. "There was blood everywhere. Bags and shoes were scattered on the ground," said witness Ukeme Eyibio.

Eyibio was parked outside the complex talking on the phone when he heard a loud bang like a bomb. When he looked up, the church was gone. Eyibio and three others pulled 10 injured victims from the rubble at the edge of the church.

Doctors at the Uyo Medical College Hospital said their morgue was overflowing. Authorities fear the death toll could rise further.

Location of Uyo city. Graphics: Aljazeera

Local government representatives said authorities are opening an investigation to determine whether the project complied with safety standards./.

According to VNE