Dozens die in Nigeria lorry smash

At least 40 people died instantly in north-western Nigeria when the front tyre of a heavily laden lorry burst, eyewitnesses told the BBC.

The lorry, crammed full of traders and domestic animals from a local market, careered off the road and into a ditch.

Another 40 passengers were taken to hospital in Funtua in Katsina State on Sunday after the accident, and some of them may also have died.

Nigeria's national police spokesman said they could not confirm fatalities.

Last month, some 35 people were killed in a similar accident in north-eastern Yobe State.

Most roads in Nigeria are in a poor state, riddled with pot-holes and motorists often disobey traffic regulations leading to frequent accidents.