An investigation into a series of lethal explosions involving kerosene, used for cooking and lighting, is starting in Nigeria's Benin City.

Officials say the explosions, which have been carrying on for almost a month, have resulted in more than 30 deaths and left more than 100 people injured.

It appears that, either through incompetence or corruption, the supply of kerosene to Benin City was adulterated.

One theory is that it was mixed or even replaced with a batch of highly inflammable petrol.

The judicial inquiry set up by the state governemnt is tasked with discovering the cause of the explosions.

Blood appeal

Officials in Benin City are appealing to the public to donate blood to the dozens of victims who are suffering from terrible burns as a result of a series of kerosene explosions.

More than 30 have died in Benin City

The federal government has responded with emergency donations of drugs and dressing.

But, whilst hospitals in Benin City are stretched to capacity, there are fears that people in the surrounding rural areas are not receiving the same level of medical attention.

Because the electricity supply in Nigeria is so erratic, millions of people are forced to rely on kerosene.