At least 160 people reported to have died when the roof of a crowded church in southern Nigeria collapsed.

Morgues are reported to overflowing as they struggle to cope with the bodies of the victims.

Hundreds of people, including governor Udom Emmanuel, were inside the Reigners Bible Church International in Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom state, when the corrugated iron roof caved in, witnesses said.

The worshippers had gathered for a ceremony to ordain church founder Akan Weeks.

The church was still under construction, with work due to finish for the service on Saturday.

The state government said it will investigate to see if building standards were compromised.

Buildings collapses often occur in Nigeria mainly due to contractors using sub-standard materials and not always adhering to building regulations.

In 2014, 116 people died when a multi-storey building of the Synagogue Church of All Nations collapsed in Lagos. A coroner found structural faults were to blame.