The BBC reports that a radical Islamist uprising in the northern Nigerian state of Yobo has been suppressed, according to local officials. However, The Beeb's own correspondent, Mato Adamu in Yobe,  reports that fighting continues in some areas. The Governor of the state, Bukar Ibrahim, said that many 'Taleban—oriented radicals' have been killed, while the BBC adds that at least one police officer has died.

The uprising began early last week when militants attacked police stations in a number of towns, burned buildings and stole large quantities of weapons.

At one state building they occupied, the militants pulled down the Nigerian flag and raised that of Afghanistan.

The violence reportedly ended at the weekend after hundreds of Nigerian soldiers were sent to a military camp run by the "Taleban" group near the border with Niger.

According correspondent Mato Adamu, the rebellion has enjoyed minimal support from the locals, and there is no evidence of foreign support. Nevertheless, there can be little comfort in the name chosen by the rebels or their leader, who calls himself 'Mullah Omar.'

Northern Nigeria has 12 states with Muslim majorities where Sharia law has been introduced. Widespread violence, with about 10,000 casualties, has erupted, aimed at the Christian minority in recent years.

Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa, with significant oil deposits, and sends an increasing number of immigrants to the United States. It is one of a number of nations in West Africa which have been experiencing significant unrest from their Muslim populations.

Posted by Thomas   01 05 04