3 March 2011 Last updated at 16:13 GMT Share this pageFacebookTwitter ShareEmail Print Nigeria: Deadly explosion at rally near Abuja

There has been an explosion at a political meeting near the Nigerian capital Abuja, killing several people, police say.

The blast happened during a rally in Suleja, about 40km (24 miles) from Abuja, officials say.

The cause of the blast is not yet known and police are investigating. National elections are due in April.

Central Nigeria has seen a recent upsurge in violence between rival ethnic, religious and political groups.

Reports on the death toll from Thursday's blast vary, with some saying three people died and others up to six.

At least 21 people were wounded, AFP news agency reported, citing police.

Civil defence official Emmanuel Ekeh told AP news agency that the blast was caused by a bomb at a political rally for Nigeria's governing party, the People's Democratic Party (PDP). However, this could not be confirmed.

The PDP - led by President Goodluck Jonathan - has won every presidential election since Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999 and is favourite to win April's poll.