Leona Lewis was stuck in Nigeria yesterday after blasts killed at least 12 people in the country’s capital, Abuja.

Two car bombs went off in the hours leading up to a celebration to mark 50 years of Nigerian independence. The X Factor winner was in the city to perform at the event and her hotel was not far from the crime scene. According to reports, the star and her entourage “felt the entire building shake”.

Leona’s performance was cancelled and the Bleeding Love singer issued a statement paying tribute to those who had been killed. "Out of respect for those victims, it is with regret that I have had to postpone my performance."

It’s thought the bombers were from a militant group that deliberately timed the attacks to coincide with the festivities. One man has been arrested in connection with the blasts.

As of last night, Leona still hadn’t managed to fly home and was holed up in her hotel in Abuja with her tour manager and friends.