AN unconfirmed number of people have been feared dead in a gas explosion along Jos road in Lafia, Nasarawa state capital on Monday.

The incident occurred as workers were offloading gas at Monaco gas plant situated behind  Natson filling station in Lafia.

The Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC) and the fire service confirmed the incident, stating it had been brought under control.

The fire, which was attributed to gas leakage, spread speedily attacking some passers-by as they sought for safety. Many people were burnt beyond recognition. Likewise, vehicles, shops and offices were touched by the explosion.

FRSC officials and the fire service evacuated victims from the scene of the incident. The number of casualties is yet to be known.

The Nasarawa government has ordered the evacuation of all affected persons to the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, for treatment.

Senate President Bukola Saraki, who was in the state for his presidential campaign, visited victims of the explosion. He said that Nigeria is losing people who can add value to her development.

He also expressed on his twitter handle that there would be support for the state government to ensure the full recovery of all the victims.

Some survivors were conveyed to the hospitals on bikes without waiting for an ambulance.