"The police in Kano today... (at) about 9:00am (0800 GMT) averted what could have been another devastating bomb blast in the ancient city of Kano," a statement said.

The vehicle was packed with material for an improvised explosive device but was recovered and made safe before it could be detonated, they added.

"Kano police operatives, acting on intelligence, tracked and recovered a Mitsubishi station wagon car... loaded with assorted gas cylinders, one container of fuel and other electrical components of improvised explosive devices," a statement read.

Authorities said it was too early to say who was behind the violence but observers suggested a link to local politics rather than Boko Haram, the insurgent group terrorizing north Nigeria who are holding more than 200 schoolgirls captive.

The scene of Sunday's blast in the mainly Christian district of Sabon Gari was cordoned off, with armed police and soldiers on guard and allowing only local residents back home.

"Meanwhile, security agencies in Kano have commenced (an) investigation into both the aborted blast as well as last night's bomb incident."

Sunday's attack happened at about 10:00 pm (2100 GMT) in the Middle Road area of the neighbourhood on Sunday, when the busy area was packed with revellers at its many bars and restaurants.

NJF/NJF