From Israel to India, countries that held or will conduct general polls this year

How Boko Haram's terror split  Niger, Chad and Cameroon

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-after-boko-haram-kidnap-112-chibok-girls-still-missing-210266&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjD68nfh9zhAhVOinAKHSyjBkwQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3MuMl23umumdDJi65N-egK">Boko Haram</a> fighters torched a village in Cameroon's troubled Far North Region overnight and killed 11 civilians in their sleep, security sources told AFP on Friday.

"Boko Haram made an incursion at night in the Tchakamari area. The toll is 11," a source close to security services in the area said, confirming a report from a member of a local self-defence militia.

It was the deadliest Boko Haram raid in recent months in Cameroon. The bodies were "charred", the source close to security services said, adding that the attackers had burnt the village.

The dead included both children and the aged and began at around 10 pm and lasted until about 1 am Friday.

The Boko Haram conflict began in 2009 in neighbouring Nigeria and has killed more than 27,000 people and left 1.8 million homeless in the country's northeast.

The violence has spilt into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

Boko Haram fighters torched a village in Cameroon's troubled Far North Region overnight and killed 11 civilians in their sleep, security sources told AFP on Friday.

Boko Haram fighters torched a village in Cameroon's troubled Far North Region overnight and killed 11 civilians in their sleep, security sources told AFP on Friday. "Boko Haram made an incursion at night in the Tchakamari area. The toll is 11," a source close to security services in the area said, confirming a report from a member of a local self-defence militia. It was the deadliest Boko Haram raid in recent months in Cameroon. The bodies were "charred", the source close to security services said, adding that the attackers had burnt the village. The dead included both children and the aged and began at around 10 pm and lasted until about 1 am Friday. The Boko Haram conflict began in 2009 in neighbouring Nigeria and has killed more than 27,000 people and left 1.8 million homeless in the country's northeast. The violence has spilt into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

Around 11 civilians killed in Cameroon Boko Haram attack

Twelve people were killed and 16 others badly injured when a fuel tanker exploded in the northern Nigerian city of Gombe, police told AFP on Sunday.

The driver lost control of the fuel tanker as he tried to avoid colliding with another truck at a bridge on the outskirts of the city on Saturday.

The tanker fell on its side, "spilled its contents and exploded, causing an inferno that engulfed other road users," Gombe state police spokeswoman Mary Mallum said.

"Twelve people burned to death while 16 others were seriously injured and evacuated to hospital for treatment," she said, accusing the driver -- who was among those killed -- of reckless driving and speeding.

Accidents are common on Nigeria's poorly maintained roads, many caused by reckless driving, speeding and disregard for traffic rules.

Nineteen people were killed on April 5 when a truck crashed in northern Katsina state due to "fatigue and overloading", according to road safety officials.

Twelve people were killed and 16 others badly injured when a fuel tanker exploded in the northern Nigerian city of Gombe, police told AFP on Sunday. The driver lost control of the fuel tanker as he tried to avoid colliding with another truck at a bridge on the outskirts of the city on Saturday.

Twelve people were killed and 16 others badly injured when a fuel tanker exploded in the northern Nigerian city of Gombe, police told AFP on Sunday. The driver lost control of the fuel tanker as he tried to avoid colliding with another truck at a bridge on the outskirts of the city on Saturday. The tanker fell on its side, "spilled its contents and exploded, causing an inferno that engulfed other road users," Gombe state police spokeswoman Mary Mallum said. "Twelve people burned to death while 16 others were seriously injured and evacuated to hospital for treatment," she said, accusing the driver -- who was among those killed -- of reckless driving and speeding. Accidents are common on Nigeria's poorly maintained roads, many caused by reckless driving, speeding and disregard for traffic rules. Nineteen people were killed on April 5 when a truck crashed in northern Katsina state due to "fatigue and overloading", according to road safety officials.

At least 12 killed in fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria: Police

Aisha Musa Maina digs through an old bag looking for memories of her daughter Hauwa, one of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped five years ago by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-targets-nigeria-troops-in-dawn-raid-on-polling-day-199186&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiTssTLlc_hAhWPiHAKHbTnCOgQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-5bs-2ElNg6vt58oTPxJo">Boko Haram</a> jihadists in northeastern Nigeria.

All she has left are old papers damaged by dust and humidity, a school diploma and a small photograph.

The kidnap had caused the family such suffering and sadness it feels as if they were all abducted, Hauwa's mother told AFP.

On April 14, 2014, gunmen stormed the Chibok girls' boarding school, kidnapping 276 pupils aged 12-17, 57 of whom managed to escape by jumping from the trucks.

Their plight moved the world and became a key election issue for President Muhammadu Buhari who was elected a year later on the promise of defeating Boko Haram and returning the girls safe and sound.

After negotiations with Boko Haram, 107 of the girls either escaped, were released in exchange for prisoners or were recovered by the army. 
Living in hope

Hauwa is one of the 112 girls of whom there has been no news.

Her family wonders if their daughter is still alive or if she was killed in a Nigerian army bombing, a claim made by the jihadist group.

She might have died of hunger or disease, given the army's long-term policy of blocking the group's supplies. She might even have been converted to the group's radical beliefs.

In a propaganda video broadcast by Boko Haram in January 2018, 14 women claiming to be Chibok girls, three of whom held babies, warned their families they would not be coming home.

Thanking the leader of the group Abubakar Shekau, who "married us off" they added: "We are the Chibok girls that you cry for... (but) by the grace of Allah, we will not return to you."

The news is scarce in this small, remote town where the literacy rate is very low.

Hauwa's father Musa Maina has no idea what has happened to his daughter, although he insists he has not lost hope.

"We heard that some parents were reunited with their daughters but ours (is) still yet to come back home," he said.

"We aren't losing hope but we are appealing to the government to invest more effort to bring back our girls and reunite us," he added.

Elsewhere in the country, the passage of time seems to have lowered expectations of finding the girls.

At a big traffic junction in the centre of the economic capital Lagos, drivers no longer pay attention to their pictures hung along the railings.

Over 1,000 children kidnapped

Five years ago the "Bring back our girls" slogan — fuelled by social media — became a powerful rallying cry.

Now, the girls' plight takes its place alongside the many other tragedies in this country of 190 million plagued by crime and conflict.

Boko Haram has also grown in strength over the past year, after being weakened during the first years of Buhari's presidency — he was reelected for a second term in February.

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the IS-linked faction of Boko Haram, has increased its deadly attacks on military bases, killing several hundred Nigerian army soldiers.

Last year on the fourth anniversary of the Chibok kidnapping, the UN Children's agency said more than 1,000 other children had also been kidnapped by jihadists since 2013.

In 2016, Human Rights Watch put the number of young boys — some as young as five — in the hands of the group at up to 10,000.

Some of these children are believed to have been released and sent to deradicalisation centres as the Nigerian army made inroads into Boko Haram territory.

Whatever their fate, and that of the Chibok girls, a decade of conflict has taken a heavy toll.

The Boko Haram insurgency has claimed 27,000 lives in Nigeria where nearly two million people still cannot return to their homes and also spilt over into neighbouring countries Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

Aisha Musa Maina digs through an old bag looking for memories of her daughter Hauwa, one of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped five years ago by Boko Haram jihadists in northeastern Nigeria.

Aisha Musa Maina digs through an old bag looking for memories of her daughter Hauwa, one of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped five years ago by Boko Haram jihadists in northeastern Nigeria. All she has left are old papers damaged by dust and humidity, a school diploma and a small photograph. The kidnap had caused the family such suffering and sadness it feels as if they were all abducted, Hauwa's mother told AFP. On April 14, 2014, gunmen stormed the Chibok girls' boarding school, kidnapping 276 pupils aged 12-17, 57 of whom managed to escape by jumping from the trucks. Their plight moved the world and became a key election issue for President Muhammadu Buhari who was elected a year later on the promise of defeating Boko Haram and returning the girls safe and sound. After negotiations with Boko Haram, 107 of the girls either escaped, were released in exchange for prisoners or were recovered by the army. Living in hope Hauwa is one of the 112 girls of whom there has been no news. Her family wonders if their daughter is still alive or if she was killed in a Nigerian army bombing, a claim made by the jihadist group. She might have died of hunger or disease, given the army's long-term policy of blocking the group's supplies. She might even have been converted to the group's radical beliefs. In a propaganda video broadcast by Boko Haram in January 2018, 14 women claiming to be Chibok girls, three of whom held babies, warned their families they would not be coming home. Thanking the leader of the group Abubakar Shekau, who "married us off" they added: "We are the Chibok girls that you cry for... (but) by the grace of Allah, we will not return to you." The news is scarce in this small, remote town where the literacy rate is very low. Hauwa's father Musa Maina has no idea what has happened to his daughter, although he insists he has not lost hope. "We heard that some parents were reunited with their daughters but ours (is) still yet to come back home," he said. "We aren't losing hope but we are appealing to the government to invest more effort to bring back our girls and reunite us," he added. Elsewhere in the country, the passage of time seems to have lowered expectations of finding the girls. At a big traffic junction in the centre of the economic capital Lagos, drivers no longer pay attention to their pictures hung along the railings. Over 1,000 children kidnapped Five years ago the "Bring back our girls" slogan — fuelled by social media — became a powerful rallying cry. Now, the girls' plight takes its place alongside the many other tragedies in this country of 190 million plagued by crime and conflict. Boko Haram has also grown in strength over the past year, after being weakened during the first years of Buhari's presidency — he was reelected for a second term in February. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the IS-linked faction of Boko Haram, has increased its deadly attacks on military bases, killing several hundred Nigerian army soldiers. Last year on the fourth anniversary of the Chibok kidnapping, the UN Children's agency said more than 1,000 other children had also been kidnapped by jihadists since 2013. In 2016, Human Rights Watch put the number of young boys — some as young as five — in the hands of the group at up to 10,000. Some of these children are believed to have been released and sent to deradicalisation centres as the Nigerian army made inroads into Boko Haram territory. Whatever their fate, and that of the Chibok girls, a decade of conflict has taken a heavy toll. The Boko Haram insurgency has claimed 27,000 lives in Nigeria where nearly two million people still cannot return to their homes and also spilt over into neighbouring countries Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

Five years after Boko Haram kidnap, 112 Chibok girls still missing

Another body has been recovered from the rubble of a building housing a school that collapsed in Nigeria's biggest city, Lagos, rescue workers said Thursday, taking the death toll to nine.

"We worked through the night and one body was recovered," the southwest coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, told AFP.

The dilapidated building in the densely populated Lagos Island area of the city came down without warning on Wednesday morning.

Locals, firefighters and other emergency services workers picked through the rubble to find those trapped, in chaotic scenes.

Thirty-seven people were rescued alive, Farinloye said on Wednesday night.

Lagos State governor Akinwunmi Ambode said the building had been earmarked for demolition and a nursery and primary school was being run illegally on one of its floors.

School bags, toys and clothes were among the piles of rubble as a bulldozer tried to clear a path through wreckage.

Shopworker Adeniyi Afolabi, who lives nearby, gave the name of the school as the Ohen Nursery and Primary, and said there were 144 pupils in attendance on Wednesday.

Another local, Zion Munachi, also confirmed the name and the number of pupils. Both said not all children were at the school because of sports activities.

Joshua Yang, of the Lagos State Fire Service, said the nursery area of the building had now been cleared.

"There are no persons left in the rubble," he told the TVC News channel.

Building collapses are tragically common in Nigeria, where building regulations are routinely flouted.

In September 2014, 116 people died -- 84 of them South Africans -- when a six-storey guesthouse collapsed at the Lagos church complex of celebrity televangelist TB Joshua.

An inquiry found extra floors had been added without planning permission.

In 2016, at least 60 people were killed when the roof collapsed at a church in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, in the south.

Another body has been recovered from the rubble of a building housing a school that collapsed in Nigeria's biggest city, Lagos, rescue workers said Thursday, taking the death toll to nine.

Another body has been recovered from the rubble of a building housing a school that collapsed in Nigeria's biggest city, Lagos, rescue workers said Thursday, taking the death toll to nine. "We worked through the night and one body was recovered," the southwest coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, told AFP. The dilapidated building in the densely populated Lagos Island area of the city came down without warning on Wednesday morning. Locals, firefighters and other emergency services workers picked through the rubble to find those trapped, in chaotic scenes. Thirty-seven people were rescued alive, Farinloye said on Wednesday night. Lagos State governor Akinwunmi Ambode said the building had been earmarked for demolition and a nursery and primary school was being run illegally on one of its floors. School bags, toys and clothes were among the piles of rubble as a bulldozer tried to clear a path through wreckage. Shopworker Adeniyi Afolabi, who lives nearby, gave the name of the school as the Ohen Nursery and Primary, and said there were 144 pupils in attendance on Wednesday. Another local, Zion Munachi, also confirmed the name and the number of pupils. Both said not all children were at the school because of sports activities. Joshua Yang, of the Lagos State Fire Service, said the nursery area of the building had now been cleared. "There are no persons left in the rubble," he told the TVC News channel. Building collapses are tragically common in Nigeria, where building regulations are routinely flouted. In September 2014, 116 people died -- 84 of them South Africans -- when a six-storey guesthouse collapsed at the Lagos church complex of celebrity televangelist TB Joshua. An inquiry found extra floors had been added without planning permission. In 2016, at least 60 people were killed when the roof collapsed at a church in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, in the south.

Nigeria: Death toll rises to nine in collapsed Lagos school building

At least 10 young children were trapped when a four-story building collapsed in a densely-populated area of Lagos Wednesday, and rescuers were trying to reach them through the damaged roof.&nbsp;

The children were attending a nursery and primary school on the top floor of the residential building when the structure collapsed. Police said they believed scores of people were trapped under the rubble.&nbsp;

The incident took place near Itafaji market on Lagos Island at around 10:00 am (0900 GMT).

In chaotic scenes, thousands of people thronged the area as police and rescue workers sought to rescue the victims.&nbsp;

A young man helping rescue efforts who gave his name only as Derin said "at least 10 children" were trapped inside but "thought to be alive."

Police said the overall number of people inside was likely much higher.&nbsp;

"We are still trying to find out how many are trapped inside" but probably scores of people said police officer Seun Ariwyo.&nbsp;

He said "at least 20 have been brought out" but did not say whether they were alive or dead.

An AFP reporter at the scene saw at least eight people pulled from the wreckage, including a small boy with blood on his face. Covered in dust, he was alive but unconscious and appeared to be badly hurt.&nbsp;

Building collapses are tragically common in Nigeria, where building regulations are routinely flouted.

In September 2014, 116 people, 84 of the South Africans, died when a six-story building collapsed as a celebrity televangelist was preaching.

An inquiry found the building had been built illegally and had structural flaws.

In December 2016, at least 60 people were killed when a roof fell in on a church in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, in the east of the country.

At least 10 young children were trapped when a four-story building collapsed in a densely-populated area of Lagos Wednesday, and rescuers were trying to reach them through the damaged roof.

At least 10 young children were trapped when a four-story building collapsed in a densely-populated area of Lagos Wednesday, and rescuers were trying to reach them through the damaged roof. The children were attending a nursery and primary school on the top floor of the residential building when the structure collapsed. Police said they believed scores of people were trapped under the rubble. The incident took place near Itafaji market on Lagos Island at around 10:00 am (0900 GMT). In chaotic scenes, thousands of people thronged the area as police and rescue workers sought to rescue the victims. A young man helping rescue efforts who gave his name only as Derin said "at least 10 children" were trapped inside but "thought to be alive." Police said the overall number of people inside was likely much higher. "We are still trying to find out how many are trapped inside" but probably scores of people said police officer Seun Ariwyo. He said "at least 20 have been brought out" but did not say whether they were alive or dead. An AFP reporter at the scene saw at least eight people pulled from the wreckage, including a small boy with blood on his face. Covered in dust, he was alive but unconscious and appeared to be badly hurt. Building collapses are tragically common in Nigeria, where building regulations are routinely flouted. In September 2014, 116 people, 84 of the South Africans, died when a six-story building collapsed as a celebrity televangelist was preaching. An inquiry found the building had been built illegally and had structural flaws. In December 2016, at least 60 people were killed when a roof fell in on a church in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, in the east of the country.

School children trapped as building collapses in Lagos

Muhammadu Buhari was on Tuesday re-elected Nigeria's president, after a delayed poll that angered voters and raised political temperatures, leading to claims of rigging and collusion.

Buhari, 76, took an unassailable lead of more than four million votes with the last states yet to be declared, making it impossible for his nearest rival, Atiku Abubakar, to win.

The former military ruler was first elected as civilian president of Africa's most populous nation and leading oil producer in 2015.

Supporters of Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) had gathered to celebrate at his campaign headquarters in the capital, Abuja, even before the final results were announced.

Some sang "We're popping champagne!" while Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo was seen in a video clip singing "Up we go!" in a reference to Buhari and his "Next Level" campaign slogan.

Buhari's spokesman, Garba Shehu, posted a photograph of the president on Twitter, watching the results on television. "#BuhariHasWon," he wrote.

But there were none of the spontaneous street parties that marked his victory four years ago when he became Nigeria's first opposition candidate to beat an incumbent president.

To win the presidency, a candidate needs a majority of votes nationwide and at least 25 per cent of support in two-thirds of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Initial results showed Buhari won 15,191,847 votes (56 per cent) while Abubakar, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won 11,262,978 votes (41 per cent).

Buhari won in 19 states -- including the two most populous, Lagos and Kano -- while Abubakar was victorious in 17 states and the FCT.

There was no immediate official concession from Abubakar, whose party had earlier called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to halt the count, citing irregularities.

Legal challenge?&nbsp; 
In 2015, President Goodluck Jonathan won plaudits for conceding to Buhari in a phone call, when the results indicated he could not win.

The concession is acknowledged as having prevented a repeat of the political violence that has marked previous elections in Nigeria, in which hundreds of people have been killed.

This year's election -- the sixth in the 20 years since the return of civilian rule after decades of military government -- was initially scheduled for February 16.

But INEC postponed them for one week just hours before polls were due to open, citing logistical difficulties in delivering ballot boxes and other election materials.

Voting took place on Saturday after a week in which the APC and PDP intensified their war of words, accusing the other of conspiring with INEC to rig the result.

The PDP's claimed data from handheld devices used to authenticate voters' identities at nearly 120,000 polling units had been altered in favour of the ruling party.

It called for the results in at least two states to be re-run and for a reversal of the cancellation of tens of thousands of "valid, legal" votes elsewhere.

Observers also pointed out discrepancies in declared tallies.

The claims -- and Abubakar's insistence that he would only accept a free, fair and credible election -- could be a prelude to a legal challenge of the outcome.

Voter apathy 
The vote was marred by violence, including 53 deaths, according to the Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 civil society groups that monitored polling.

Some observers reported instances of vote-buying, intimidation and violence towards voters and officials, which have been a problem in previous polls in Nigeria.

The issues will likely prompt calls for electoral reform, including the introduction of technology capable of directly transmitting results from polling units.

Several international monitors meanwhile said repeated postponements could undermine confidence in the electoral process, after similar delays in 2011 and 2015.

A total of 72.7 million people were eligible to vote in the presidential poll as well as parliamentary elections held at the same time.

Low voter turnout -- in some places as low as 18 per cent -- was blamed on a combination of apathy because of the delay, organisational and logistical problems, as well as unrest.

But Nana Nwachukwu, a lawyer and political activist, said: "If people could see the effects (of voting) they would care more.&nbsp;

"You pump your own water, fuel your own electricity, transportation is private. That apathy is there because people don't rely on government."

Voter cards were also a cheap way of getting identification, she said, adding: "So, people collect them who have no intention of actually voting."

Muhammadu Buhari was on Tuesday re-elected Nigeria's president, after a delayed poll that angered voters and raised political temperatures, leading to claims of rigging and collusion.

Muhammadu Buhari was on Tuesday re-elected Nigeria's president, after a delayed poll that angered voters and raised political temperatures, leading to claims of rigging and collusion. Buhari, 76, took an unassailable lead of more than four million votes with the last states yet to be declared, making it impossible for his nearest rival, Atiku Abubakar, to win. The former military ruler was first elected as civilian president of Africa's most populous nation and leading oil producer in 2015. Supporters of Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) had gathered to celebrate at his campaign headquarters in the capital, Abuja, even before the final results were announced. Some sang "We're popping champagne!" while Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo was seen in a video clip singing "Up we go!" in a reference to Buhari and his "Next Level" campaign slogan. Buhari's spokesman, Garba Shehu, posted a photograph of the president on Twitter, watching the results on television. "#BuhariHasWon," he wrote. But there were none of the spontaneous street parties that marked his victory four years ago when he became Nigeria's first opposition candidate to beat an incumbent president. To win the presidency, a candidate needs a majority of votes nationwide and at least 25 per cent of support in two-thirds of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Initial results showed Buhari won 15,191,847 votes (56 per cent) while Abubakar, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won 11,262,978 votes (41 per cent). Buhari won in 19 states -- including the two most populous, Lagos and Kano -- while Abubakar was victorious in 17 states and the FCT. There was no immediate official concession from Abubakar, whose party had earlier called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to halt the count, citing irregularities. Legal challenge? In 2015, President Goodluck Jonathan won plaudits for conceding to Buhari in a phone call, when the results indicated he could not win. The concession is acknowledged as having prevented a repeat of the political violence that has marked previous elections in Nigeria, in which hundreds of people have been killed. This year's election -- the sixth in the 20 years since the return of civilian rule after decades of military government -- was initially scheduled for February 16. But INEC postponed them for one week just hours before polls were due to open, citing logistical difficulties in delivering ballot boxes and other election materials. Voting took place on Saturday after a week in which the APC and PDP intensified their war of words, accusing the other of conspiring with INEC to rig the result. The PDP's claimed data from handheld devices used to authenticate voters' identities at nearly 120,000 polling units had been altered in favour of the ruling party. It called for the results in at least two states to be re-run and for a reversal of the cancellation of tens of thousands of "valid, legal" votes elsewhere. Observers also pointed out discrepancies in declared tallies. The claims -- and Abubakar's insistence that he would only accept a free, fair and credible election -- could be a prelude to a legal challenge of the outcome. Voter apathy The vote was marred by violence, including 53 deaths, according to the Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 civil society groups that monitored polling. Some observers reported instances of vote-buying, intimidation and violence towards voters and officials, which have been a problem in previous polls in Nigeria. The issues will likely prompt calls for electoral reform, including the introduction of technology capable of directly transmitting results from polling units. Several international monitors meanwhile said repeated postponements could undermine confidence in the electoral process, after similar delays in 2011 and 2015. A total of 72.7 million people were eligible to vote in the presidential poll as well as parliamentary elections held at the same time. Low voter turnout -- in some places as low as 18 per cent -- was blamed on a combination of apathy because of the delay, organisational and logistical problems, as well as unrest. But Nana Nwachukwu, a lawyer and political activist, said: "If people could see the effects (of voting) they would care more. "You pump your own water, fuel your own electricity, transportation is private. That apathy is there because people don't rely on government." Voter cards were also a cheap way of getting identification, she said, adding: "So, people collect them who have no intention of actually voting."

Muhammadu Buhari re-elected as Nigeria's president

Civil society groups monitoring Nigeria's presidential and parliamentary election said on Monday that 39 people have been killed in violence linked to the vote.

The Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 organisations, said "election-related violence... led to the death of at least 39 Nigerians" in the last two days.

The body, which previously gave a death toll of 16, had more than 8,000 observers on the ground for Saturday's vote, at which President Muhammadu Buhari is seeking a second term.

"Situation Room reiterates that no election in Nigeria should cost the life of any citizen and condemns in the strongest terms the lack of empathy, concern and sensitivity by the police class regarding these events," it said in a statement.

A total of 16 people were killed in the southern state of Rivers, which has long been a flashpoint for political violence.&nbsp;

Bayelsa, which neighbours Rivers to the west, saw four deaths, and Delta, the next state along, had two fatalities. Eight other states around the country saw people killed.

Clement Nwankwo, the executive director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre, who is also convenor of the Situation Room, said the violence should be "thoroughly investigated".

The group highlighted reports that just over a quarter of the nearly 120,000 polling units were under-policed, and there were "shortfalls and gaps" in security elsewhere.

At least six states saw disruption in polling. In the Okoto area of the country's biggest city, Lagos, voters were chased away and ballot boxes were destroyed, Nwankwo said.

In Osun state, also in the southwest, ballot papers and boxes were destroyed at the local office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), he added.

There were also reports of some "partisan" security officials, "compromised" INEC staff and incidents involving the military, including blocking some voters.

"Situation Room notes that INEC has not managed the election efficiently and significant shortcomings have been recorded," the group said.

"The election has been a step back from the 2015 General Election and actions should be taken to identify what has gone wrong and what can be corrected."

Police said separately that 128 people had been arrested across the country for electoral offences, including murder, vote-buying and ballot box snatching.

Civil society groups monitoring Nigeria's presidential and parliamentary election said on Monday that 39 people have been killed in violence linked to the vote. The Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 organisations, said "election-related violence.

Civil society groups monitoring Nigeria's presidential and parliamentary election said on Monday that 39 people have been killed in violence linked to the vote. The Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 organisations, said "election-related violence... led to the death of at least 39 Nigerians" in the last two days. The body, which previously gave a death toll of 16, had more than 8,000 observers on the ground for Saturday's vote, at which President Muhammadu Buhari is seeking a second term. "Situation Room reiterates that no election in Nigeria should cost the life of any citizen and condemns in the strongest terms the lack of empathy, concern and sensitivity by the police class regarding these events," it said in a statement. A total of 16 people were killed in the southern state of Rivers, which has long been a flashpoint for political violence. Bayelsa, which neighbours Rivers to the west, saw four deaths, and Delta, the next state along, had two fatalities. Eight other states around the country saw people killed. Clement Nwankwo, the executive director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre, who is also convenor of the Situation Room, said the violence should be "thoroughly investigated". The group highlighted reports that just over a quarter of the nearly 120,000 polling units were under-policed, and there were "shortfalls and gaps" in security elsewhere. At least six states saw disruption in polling. In the Okoto area of the country's biggest city, Lagos, voters were chased away and ballot boxes were destroyed, Nwankwo said. In Osun state, also in the southwest, ballot papers and boxes were destroyed at the local office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), he added. There were also reports of some "partisan" security officials, "compromised" INEC staff and incidents involving the military, including blocking some voters. "Situation Room notes that INEC has not managed the election efficiently and significant shortcomings have been recorded," the group said. "The election has been a step back from the 2015 General Election and actions should be taken to identify what has gone wrong and what can be corrected." Police said separately that 128 people had been arrested across the country for electoral offences, including murder, vote-buying and ballot box snatching.

Nigeria election violence killed 'at least 39': Monitors

Sixteen people were killed on Saturday in electoral violence across Nigeria during <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-counting-votes-in-presidential-election-dogged-by-delays-199192">presidential and parliamentary elections</a>, a network of civil society organisations said.

The Situation Room umbrella group of pro-democracy groups, which is monitoring the vote, said on Twitter that "16 deaths have been recorded across 8 states".

Six people were killed in the southern state of Rivers, which has long been a flashpoint for violence, while two others were killed in neighbouring Bayelsa.

Two people were killed in Borno and Yobe states in the northeast; two in the north-central state of Kogi; and two in Ebonyi, in the southeast.

One person was killed in Zamfara, in the northwest, and another in Lagos, in the southwest, which also saw ballot boxes and papers set on fire, the monitors said.

There were reports of vote-buying in six states, they added in a mid-afternoon update.

Electoral violence, which has marred previous votes in Africa's most populous country, was relatively low compared to other years. Most voting took place without incident.

Nigeria's Centre for Crisis Communication, which comprises representatives from security agencies, on Friday identified 12 election flashpoints around the country.

Analysts SBM Intelligence said 233 people have killed in 67 incidents of election-related violence from last October to Friday -- an average of two people per day.

In oil-rich Rivers, police said unknown gunmen shot dead a former local government leader and his brother in the Andoni area of the state. 
Both were members of President Muhammadu Buhari's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party.

Police spokesman Nnamdi Omoni said "hoodlums" dressed in military uniforms also invaded some polling stations in the Okrika area of the state and snatched voting materials.

"Police have moved in to restore order in Okrika and INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) is making efforts to ensure voters are not disenfranchised in the area," he said.

At one polling unit in the Yaba area of Lagos, AFP reporters witnessed bloody fights between youths, as unknown men distributed cash to waiting groups.

There were also reports of voter intimidation by thugs, according to local&nbsp; 
residents.

But in many other areas, voting went on without disruption.&nbsp;

Sixteen people were killed on Saturday in electoral violence across Nigeria during presidential and parliamentary elections, a network of civil society organisations said.

Sixteen people were killed on Saturday in electoral violence across Nigeria during presidential and parliamentary elections, a network of civil society organisations said. The Situation Room umbrella group of pro-democracy groups, which is monitoring the vote, said on Twitter that "16 deaths have been recorded across 8 states". Six people were killed in the southern state of Rivers, which has long been a flashpoint for violence, while two others were killed in neighbouring Bayelsa. Two people were killed in Borno and Yobe states in the northeast; two in the north-central state of Kogi; and two in Ebonyi, in the southeast. One person was killed in Zamfara, in the northwest, and another in Lagos, in the southwest, which also saw ballot boxes and papers set on fire, the monitors said. There were reports of vote-buying in six states, they added in a mid-afternoon update. Electoral violence, which has marred previous votes in Africa's most populous country, was relatively low compared to other years. Most voting took place without incident. Nigeria's Centre for Crisis Communication, which comprises representatives from security agencies, on Friday identified 12 election flashpoints around the country. Analysts SBM Intelligence said 233 people have killed in 67 incidents of election-related violence from last October to Friday -- an average of two people per day. In oil-rich Rivers, police said unknown gunmen shot dead a former local government leader and his brother in the Andoni area of the state. Both were members of President Muhammadu Buhari's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party. Police spokesman Nnamdi Omoni said "hoodlums" dressed in military uniforms also invaded some polling stations in the Okrika area of the state and snatched voting materials. "Police have moved in to restore order in Okrika and INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) is making efforts to ensure voters are not disenfranchised in the area," he said. At one polling unit in the Yaba area of Lagos, AFP reporters witnessed bloody fights between youths, as unknown men distributed cash to waiting groups. There were also reports of voter intimidation by thugs, according to local residents. But in many other areas, voting went on without disruption.

Nigeria: At least 16 killed in election voilence

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence.

President Muhammadu Buhari was one of the first in the queue when the nearly 120,000 polling stations began opening at 0700 GMT. He voted in his hometown of Daura, in northwest Nigeria.

Buhari, 76, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party was accompanied by his wife, Aisha, and surrounded by a crowd of supporters.&nbsp;

As he emerged from the polling booth, he was asked whether he was confident of winning. "I will congratulate myself. I'm going to be the winner," he told reporters.

Buhari is seeking a second term of office but is facing a strong challenge from Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Abubakar was due to vote in his home state of Adamawa, in northeast Nigeria.

Blasts heard in Maiduguri

A series of explosions was heard in the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri just hours before the opening of polls in presidential and parliamentary elections.

Multiple blasts were heard at about 6:00 am, locals told AFP. There was no immediate indication of the cause but the city has been repeatedly attacked by Boko Haram Islamists.

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence.

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence. President Muhammadu Buhari was one of the first in the queue when the nearly 120,000 polling stations began opening at 0700 GMT. He voted in his hometown of Daura, in northwest Nigeria. Buhari, 76, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party was accompanied by his wife, Aisha, and surrounded by a crowd of supporters. As he emerged from the polling booth, he was asked whether he was confident of winning. "I will congratulate myself. I'm going to be the winner," he told reporters. Buhari is seeking a second term of office but is facing a strong challenge from Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Abubakar was due to vote in his home state of Adamawa, in northeast Nigeria. Blasts heard in Maiduguri A series of explosions was heard in the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri just hours before the opening of polls in presidential and parliamentary elections. Multiple blasts were heard at about 6:00 am, locals told AFP. There was no immediate indication of the cause but the city has been repeatedly attacked by Boko Haram Islamists.

Polls open in Nigerian election after a week-long delay

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-postpones-presidential-parliamentary-election-for-one-week-197707">President Muhammadu Buhari</a> on Friday urged Nigerians "to go out and vote", promising there would be adequate security for Saturday's postponed election that pits him in a tight race with businessman Atiku Abubakar.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced a week's delay to voting in the early hours of last Saturday, just as some of Nigeria's 72.8 million eligible voters were preparing to go to polling stations.

In a televised morning address on the eve of the vote, Buhari asked Nigerians to "cast aside doubt and have faith that INEC will rise to the occasion" on Saturday.

"Do not be afraid of rumours of violence and unrest. Our security agencies have worked diligently to ensure that adequate security measures are in place," he said.

Buhari's rival Atiku, a former vice president who is representing the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP), made a similar appeal to voters through his Twitter feed on Thursday night.

"This Saturday, a vote for PDP is a vote to get Nigeria working again. Come out, vote and #DefendYourVote," Atiku said in a tweet accompanied by a video of his rallies.

Buhari, a former military ruler who was later elected president in 2015, faces a close contest against Atiku to lead a country that has Africa's largest economy and is its top oil producer but is plagued by corruption and insecurity.

The Boko Haram militant insurgent group and its offshoot, Islamic State in West Africa Province, have carried out deadly sporadic raids in the northeast's Borno state. Boko Haram has warned people not to vote.

Witnesses and security officials told Reuters an attack in Borno on a governor's convoy on route to an election rally on Feb. 12 was deadlier than the government had said.

More than 1,000 soldiers from neighbouring Chad, belonging to a multinational joint force comprised of troops from the region, crossed the border into Nigeria on Friday to help with the fight against Islamists, according to two Chadian military sources.

Police patrol vehicles were seen moving around Borno's capital, Maiduguri, on Friday. Electoral commission vehicles were also seen ferrying election material under heavy police guard.

"I think everybody has to be concerned about the security ... it is something that worries people," James Jatto, a pastor in Maiduguri said.

Ali Gwarfa, an internally displaced person in Bakassi camp in Maiduguri, said he was preparing to cast his vote in a nearby centre despite the insecurity.

"We must go and vote for the candidates of our choice," Gwarfa said.

Acting Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu said police would ensure security at the polls.

In President Buhari's hometown of Daura in northern Nigeria, an election official, Saeed Ahmed, said electoral materials were being transferred to polling stations.

"I am very optimistic that tomorrow's election will be credible, free and fair," he said.

ELECTION DAY

In Lagos, Cheta Nwanze, head of research at SBM Intel, a Lagos based intelligence firm, said the postponement of the election would favour the opposition.

"I think it is important to say that, it cast the APC ruling party in bad light and it builds popular anger towards them," Nwanze said, referring to Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) party.

However, Bukola Saraki, director general of Atiku's campaign, told Reuters the delay "disadvantages us".

Members of Buhari's APC party and those of Atiku's PDP have accused each other of being behind the delay and colluding with the electoral commission, but neither party has publicly provided evidence to back up their allegations.

The electoral commission's chairman Mahmood Yakubu has insisted the vote will go ahead on Saturday. He blamed logistical reasons for the postponement and said there had been no external pressure.

"Tomorrow is election day," Yakubu told a briefing.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday urged Nigerians "to go out and vote", promising there would be adequate security for Saturday's postponed election that pits him in a tight race with businessman Atiku Abubakar.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday urged Nigerians "to go out and vote", promising there would be adequate security for Saturday's postponed election that pits him in a tight race with businessman Atiku Abubakar. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced a week's delay to voting in the early hours of last Saturday, just as some of Nigeria's 72.8 million eligible voters were preparing to go to polling stations. In a televised morning address on the eve of the vote, Buhari asked Nigerians to "cast aside doubt and have faith that INEC will rise to the occasion" on Saturday. "Do not be afraid of rumours of violence and unrest. Our security agencies have worked diligently to ensure that adequate security measures are in place," he said. Buhari's rival Atiku, a former vice president who is representing the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP), made a similar appeal to voters through his Twitter feed on Thursday night. "This Saturday, a vote for PDP is a vote to get Nigeria working again. Come out, vote and #DefendYourVote," Atiku said in a tweet accompanied by a video of his rallies. Buhari, a former military ruler who was later elected president in 2015, faces a close contest against Atiku to lead a country that has Africa's largest economy and is its top oil producer but is plagued by corruption and insecurity. The Boko Haram militant insurgent group and its offshoot, Islamic State in West Africa Province, have carried out deadly sporadic raids in the northeast's Borno state. Boko Haram has warned people not to vote. Witnesses and security officials told Reuters an attack in Borno on a governor's convoy on route to an election rally on Feb. 12 was deadlier than the government had said. More than 1,000 soldiers from neighbouring Chad, belonging to a multinational joint force comprised of troops from the region, crossed the border into Nigeria on Friday to help with the fight against Islamists, according to two Chadian military sources. Police patrol vehicles were seen moving around Borno's capital, Maiduguri, on Friday. Electoral commission vehicles were also seen ferrying election material under heavy police guard. "I think everybody has to be concerned about the security ... it is something that worries people," James Jatto, a pastor in Maiduguri said. Ali Gwarfa, an internally displaced person in Bakassi camp in Maiduguri, said he was preparing to cast his vote in a nearby centre despite the insecurity. "We must go and vote for the candidates of our choice," Gwarfa said. Acting Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu said police would ensure security at the polls. In President Buhari's hometown of Daura in northern Nigeria, an election official, Saeed Ahmed, said electoral materials were being transferred to polling stations. "I am very optimistic that tomorrow's election will be credible, free and fair," he said. ELECTION DAY In Lagos, Cheta Nwanze, head of research at SBM Intel, a Lagos based intelligence firm, said the postponement of the election would favour the opposition. "I think it is important to say that, it cast the APC ruling party in bad light and it builds popular anger towards them," Nwanze said, referring to Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) party. However, Bukola Saraki, director general of Atiku's campaign, told Reuters the delay "disadvantages us". Members of Buhari's APC party and those of Atiku's PDP have accused each other of being behind the delay and colluding with the electoral commission, but neither party has publicly provided evidence to back up their allegations. The electoral commission's chairman Mahmood Yakubu has insisted the vote will go ahead on Saturday. He blamed logistical reasons for the postponement and said there had been no external pressure. "Tomorrow is election day," Yakubu told a briefing.

Nigeria's Buhari promises security for delayed presidential election

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday warned that anyone trying to tamper with Nigeria's postponed vote risked their lives and accused the electoral commission of incompetence.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the delay in the early hours of Saturday, just as some of Nigeria's 84 million registered voters were already making their way to polling stations

Buhari said anyone trying to steal or destroy ballot boxes and voting material in the election now scheduled to take place this coming Saturday would be dealt with firmly.

"I have given the military and the police instructions to be ruthless. We are not going to be blamed for the bad conduct of the election," he told an emergency meeting of senior members of his All Progressives Congress (APC) party in the capital Abuja.

He said anyone trying to intimidate voters or interfere with the voting "will do it at the expense of his own life".

The opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) has suggested that Buhari, a former military ruler who was later elected president in 2015, was behind the postponement in order to hold on to power.

The ruling party has accused the PDP of being behind the delay and colluding with figures within the electoral commission.

The PDP criticised the president's comments in which he warned people against tampering with election material.

"President Muhammadu Buhari's threat to the lives of Nigerians, at the opening of APC's national caucus meeting in Abuja today, is a direct call for jungle justice," the party said in a statement.

All sides have, however, appealed for calm in a country where past elections have been marred by violence and intimidation. So far, there have been no signs of violence or unrest after INEC announced the delay.

Buhari faces a tight contest against the PDP's Atiku Abubakar to lead a country that has Africa's largest economy and is its top oil producer but is plagued by corruption and wide gaps between rich and poor.

The election has been fought over Buhari's handling of the economy amid fragile growth and growing unemployment as the country recovers from a recession in 2016. Rising insecurity, notably in regions under attack by Boko Haram and other Islamist militants, is also a big worry.

The INEC cited logistical difficulties and problems with transporting election material to far-flung or conflict-ridden areas and denied any political pressure had been brought to bear in its decision to suspend the vote.

Buhari said there was a need to scrutinise the issues that caused the postponement.

"Definitely the reasons why such incompetence manifests itself has to be explained to the nation. After the election we have to know exactly what really happened," he said, promising that an investigation would be launched.

The electoral commission had said that campaigning would be suspended until the new voting day on Saturday but the two main parties have said they intend to resume campaigning.

APC chairman Adams Oshiomhole told his party's meeting that INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu Oshiomhole had been mistaken in halting campaigning.

"INEC is not in a position to make laws. The law says you are entitled to renew campaigns up to 24 hours before the beginning of the election," he said.

The opposition PDP also said it would get back on the campaign trail. It rejected the commission's decision on campaigns, which a PDP statement said was "directly in conflict with the provision of the Electoral Act and is not backed by any other law in our country".

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday warned that anyone trying to tamper with Nigeria's postponed vote risked their lives and accused the electoral commission of incompetence.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday warned that anyone trying to tamper with Nigeria's postponed vote risked their lives and accused the electoral commission of incompetence. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the delay in the early hours of Saturday, just as some of Nigeria's 84 million registered voters were already making their way to polling stations Buhari said anyone trying to steal or destroy ballot boxes and voting material in the election now scheduled to take place this coming Saturday would be dealt with firmly. "I have given the military and the police instructions to be ruthless. We are not going to be blamed for the bad conduct of the election," he told an emergency meeting of senior members of his All Progressives Congress (APC) party in the capital Abuja. He said anyone trying to intimidate voters or interfere with the voting "will do it at the expense of his own life". The opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) has suggested that Buhari, a former military ruler who was later elected president in 2015, was behind the postponement in order to hold on to power. The ruling party has accused the PDP of being behind the delay and colluding with figures within the electoral commission. The PDP criticised the president's comments in which he warned people against tampering with election material. "President Muhammadu Buhari's threat to the lives of Nigerians, at the opening of APC's national caucus meeting in Abuja today, is a direct call for jungle justice," the party said in a statement. All sides have, however, appealed for calm in a country where past elections have been marred by violence and intimidation. So far, there have been no signs of violence or unrest after INEC announced the delay. Buhari faces a tight contest against the PDP's Atiku Abubakar to lead a country that has Africa's largest economy and is its top oil producer but is plagued by corruption and wide gaps between rich and poor. The election has been fought over Buhari's handling of the economy amid fragile growth and growing unemployment as the country recovers from a recession in 2016. Rising insecurity, notably in regions under attack by Boko Haram and other Islamist militants, is also a big worry. The INEC cited logistical difficulties and problems with transporting election material to far-flung or conflict-ridden areas and denied any political pressure had been brought to bear in its decision to suspend the vote. Buhari said there was a need to scrutinise the issues that caused the postponement. "Definitely the reasons why such incompetence manifests itself has to be explained to the nation. After the election we have to know exactly what really happened," he said, promising that an investigation would be launched. The electoral commission had said that campaigning would be suspended until the new voting day on Saturday but the two main parties have said they intend to resume campaigning. APC chairman Adams Oshiomhole told his party's meeting that INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu Oshiomhole had been mistaken in halting campaigning. "INEC is not in a position to make laws. The law says you are entitled to renew campaigns up to 24 hours before the beginning of the election," he said. The opposition PDP also said it would get back on the campaign trail. It rejected the commission's decision on campaigns, which a PDP statement said was "directly in conflict with the provision of the Electoral Act and is not backed by any other law in our country".

Army to be 'ruthless' against tampering in Nigeria's postponed vote: Buhari

Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open.

The voting has been&nbsp;rescheduled on February 23.

The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Mahmood Yakubu said "proceeding with the election as scheduled is no longer feasible", adding: "Consequently, the commission has decided to reschedule to Saturday, February 23, 2019."

President Muhammadu Buhari faces a tight election contest in Africa's largest economy, top oil producer and most populous nation against the main opposition candidate, businessman and former vice president Atiku Abubakar.

Nigeria is also dealing with pockets of instability. Throughout the day, authorities bolstered security in much of the country on the eve of the vote in Africa's largest democracy where past elections have been marred by violence, voter intimidation and ballot rigging.

Dozens of combat policemen and other security forces were deployed from police headquarters in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state on the country's northeast frontier that has been worst hit by Boko Haram and its offshoot, Islamic State in West Africa Province.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open. The voting has been rescheduled on February 23.

Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open. The voting has been rescheduled on February 23. The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Mahmood Yakubu said "proceeding with the election as scheduled is no longer feasible", adding: "Consequently, the commission has decided to reschedule to Saturday, February 23, 2019." President Muhammadu Buhari faces a tight election contest in Africa's largest economy, top oil producer and most populous nation against the main opposition candidate, businessman and former vice president Atiku Abubakar. Nigeria is also dealing with pockets of instability. Throughout the day, authorities bolstered security in much of the country on the eve of the vote in Africa's largest democracy where past elections have been marred by violence, voter intimidation and ballot rigging. Dozens of combat policemen and other security forces were deployed from police headquarters in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state on the country's northeast frontier that has been worst hit by Boko Haram and its offshoot, Islamic State in West Africa Province. (With inputs from agencies)

Nigeria: Election postponed hours before polls due to open

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-postpones-presidential-parliamentary-election-for-one-week-197707">Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open</a>

Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open.

The voting has been rescheduled on February 23.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pulwama-attack-india-slams-pakistan-yet-again-says-islamabad-cannot-claim-its-unaware-of-jem-presence-197702">Pulwama attack: India says Islamabad cannot be blind to JeM presence in its soil</a>

India slammed Pakistan Foreign Secretary (FS) Tehmina Janjua on Friday after the latter in his briefing to ambassador of permanent five (P5) members of United Nations security council (UNSC) rejected Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama attack. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/five-dead-multiple-wounded-in-us-mass-shooting-police-197682">Five dead, multiple wounded in US mass shooting: Police</a>

Five people were killed and multiple police officers shot Friday when a gunman opened fire in an industrial area on the outskirts of Chicago, the latest mass shooting to hit the United States.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689">Special Counsel Mueller seeks </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689">tough</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689"> sentence for ex-Trump campaign chairman Manafort</a>

Prosecutors for Special Counsel Robert Mueller urged a federal judge in Virginia on Friday to impose a strict prison sentence for President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort, after a jury last year convicted him on eight counts of bank and tax fraud.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-raises-pressure-on-venezuelas-maduro-via-sanctions-aid-airlift-197708">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-raises-pressure-on-venezuelas-maduro-via-sanctions-aid-airlift-197708"> raises pressure on Venezuela's Maduro via sanctions, aid airlift</a>

The United States ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by sanctioning some of his top security officials and the head of the state oil company, and unveiling plans to airlift over 200 tons of aid to the Colombian border.

Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open.

Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open. The voting has been rescheduled on February 23. Pulwama attack: India says Islamabad cannot be blind to JeM presence in its soil India slammed Pakistan Foreign Secretary (FS) Tehmina Janjua on Friday after the latter in his briefing to ambassador of permanent five (P5) members of United Nations security council (UNSC) rejected Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama attack. Five dead, multiple wounded in US mass shooting: Police Five people were killed and multiple police officers shot Friday when a gunman opened fire in an industrial area on the outskirts of Chicago, the latest mass shooting to hit the United States. Special Counsel Mueller seeks tough sentence for ex-Trump campaign chairman Manafort Prosecutors for Special Counsel Robert Mueller urged a federal judge in Virginia on Friday to impose a strict prison sentence for President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort, after a jury last year convicted him on eight counts of bank and tax fraud. US raises pressure on Venezuela's Maduro via sanctions, aid airlift The United States ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by sanctioning some of his top security officials and the head of the state oil company, and unveiling plans to airlift over 200 tons of aid to the Colombian border.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election.

Sources close to the two main parties confirmed to AFP only that a meeting was taking place at the body's headquarters in the capital Abuja.

An AFP correspondent outside the building said there was no access and no immediate comment from the electoral watchdog, which is responsible for organising Saturday's vote.

A record 84 million voters have been registered for the election, at which President Muhammadu Buhari, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is seeking a second term.

Local media reported that senior officials were discussing apparent logistical challenges, prompting a flurry of speculation that the vote could be postponed.

The Premium Times website said the INEC was "considering postponing" Saturday's vote.

It quoted multiple unnamed sources as saying there had been difficulties in the distribution of "sensitive electoral materials" in several states.

The commission postponed the last election in 2015 just one week before it was due to take place.

The then-chairman of the body, Attahiru Jega, said security chiefs advised a six-week delay because military operations left troops unavailable to secure the vote.

That excuse was dismissed as police and civil defence forces provide election day security, not the military.

Analysts instead saw the postponement as a way for president Goodluck Jonathan to claw back votes in the face of a strong challenge from opposition candidate Buhari.

Buhari and his All Progressives Congress (APC) accused Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of trying to scupper the vote.

There have been similar claims from the PDP this time round that the APC is attempting to rig the election, including by buying biometric voter cards.

Three fires have also broken out in three INEC offices in the past two weeks, destroying unclaimed voter cards and other election materials, including smart card readers and ballot boxes.

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election.

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election. Sources close to the two main parties confirmed to AFP only that a meeting was taking place at the body's headquarters in the capital Abuja. An AFP correspondent outside the building said there was no access and no immediate comment from the electoral watchdog, which is responsible for organising Saturday's vote. A record 84 million voters have been registered for the election, at which President Muhammadu Buhari, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is seeking a second term. Local media reported that senior officials were discussing apparent logistical challenges, prompting a flurry of speculation that the vote could be postponed. The Premium Times website said the INEC was "considering postponing" Saturday's vote. It quoted multiple unnamed sources as saying there had been difficulties in the distribution of "sensitive electoral materials" in several states. The commission postponed the last election in 2015 just one week before it was due to take place. The then-chairman of the body, Attahiru Jega, said security chiefs advised a six-week delay because military operations left troops unavailable to secure the vote. That excuse was dismissed as police and civil defence forces provide election day security, not the military. Analysts instead saw the postponement as a way for president Goodluck Jonathan to claw back votes in the face of a strong challenge from opposition candidate Buhari. Buhari and his All Progressives Congress (APC) accused Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of trying to scupper the vote. There have been similar claims from the PDP this time round that the APC is attempting to rig the election, including by buying biometric voter cards. Three fires have also broken out in three INEC offices in the past two weeks, destroying unclaimed voter cards and other election materials, including smart card readers and ballot boxes.

Nigerian election officials meet just hours before polls

Several people were killed Tuesday when a stampede erupted at a campaign rally of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari days ahead of general elections, his office said.

The president "has just been informed of the tragic deaths of several members of his All Progressives Congress (APC) party in a stampede during a presidential rally held in Port Harcourt in Rivers State," it said in a statement released late Tuesday.

Local media said panic broke out at the end of the gathering, held inside the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, when crowds tried to force their way through a locked exit.

"Those from behind were pushing and putting pressure on those in front leading to some persons falling on the ground and being trampled upon," said journalist Egufe Yafugborhi of the Vanguard newspaper.

The incident claimed at least 14 lives, according to a spokesman for the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.

"There are others under medical attention at the Emergency Unit, so we can't force a clear figure beyond what the situation is at the moment," Kem Daniel-Elebiga told AFP.

Saturday's election in Africa's most populous country will see Buhari stand for a second four-year term against former vice-president Atiku Abubakar in what is expected to be a close race.

In recent weeks, tensions have risen between the APC and Abubakar's People's Democratic Party (PDP).

The PDP has accused the government of seeking to rig the vote while the APC has said the opposition party is fomenting unrest.

Five people were killed during weekend clashes between supporters of the two main political parties in the southeast, police had confirmed on Monday.

The victims, all APC members, were shot and killed on Sunday in an apartment in Effurun, near the oil city of Warri, said Delta state police spokesman Andrew Aniamaka.

The US, Britain and the European Union have in recent weeks publicly warned against vote-rigging and election violence, and also expressed concern over Buhari's suspension of Nigeria's top judge last month.

Nigeria's last election in 2015 was considered free and fair, but state and local elections, as well as earlier presidential polls, have been marred by violence and fraud allegations.

Compared to that vote, international interest in Nigeria's election has been muted as the US administration focuses on domestic issues and Britain wrestles with its impending exit from the EU.

A British colony until 1960, Nigeria is an ally of both countries which are home to large Nigerian diaspora communities.

Several people were killed Tuesday when a stampede erupted at a campaign rally of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari days ahead of general elections, his office said.

Several people were killed Tuesday when a stampede erupted at a campaign rally of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari days ahead of general elections, his office said. The president "has just been informed of the tragic deaths of several members of his All Progressives Congress (APC) party in a stampede during a presidential rally held in Port Harcourt in Rivers State," it said in a statement released late Tuesday. Local media said panic broke out at the end of the gathering, held inside the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, when crowds tried to force their way through a locked exit. "Those from behind were pushing and putting pressure on those in front leading to some persons falling on the ground and being trampled upon," said journalist Egufe Yafugborhi of the Vanguard newspaper. The incident claimed at least 14 lives, according to a spokesman for the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. "There are others under medical attention at the Emergency Unit, so we can't force a clear figure beyond what the situation is at the moment," Kem Daniel-Elebiga told AFP. Saturday's election in Africa's most populous country will see Buhari stand for a second four-year term against former vice-president Atiku Abubakar in what is expected to be a close race. In recent weeks, tensions have risen between the APC and Abubakar's People's Democratic Party (PDP). The PDP has accused the government of seeking to rig the vote while the APC has said the opposition party is fomenting unrest. Five people were killed during weekend clashes between supporters of the two main political parties in the southeast, police had confirmed on Monday. The victims, all APC members, were shot and killed on Sunday in an apartment in Effurun, near the oil city of Warri, said Delta state police spokesman Andrew Aniamaka. The US, Britain and the European Union have in recent weeks publicly warned against vote-rigging and election violence, and also expressed concern over Buhari's suspension of Nigeria's top judge last month. Nigeria's last election in 2015 was considered free and fair, but state and local elections, as well as earlier presidential polls, have been marred by violence and fraud allegations. Compared to that vote, international interest in Nigeria's election has been muted as the US administration focuses on domestic issues and Britain wrestles with its impending exit from the EU. A British colony until 1960, Nigeria is an ally of both countries which are home to large Nigerian diaspora communities.

Several dead in Buhari rally stampede in Nigeria

A helicopter carrying Nigeria's Vice President crash-landed on Saturday en route to a political campaign two weeks before an election, but he survived the incident in central Kogi state unharmed, saying later he was safe and sound.

Nigerian go to the polls on February 16 to elect a new president in an election where the incumbent Muhammadu Buhari and his deputy have been touring the country to woo voters for a second term in office.

A video on the Twitter account of the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, showed him cheering to supporters after the incident. He posted: "We are safe and sound!"

The cause of the accident was not immediately clear. Spokesman Laolu Akande said the vice president was continuing his engagements in Kogi state.

"VP Osinbajo's chopper crash lands in Kabba, but he and the entire crew is safe," the spokesman tweeted.

Nigeria's airlines are plagued by problems - delays, cancellations and fuel shortages that are almost expected from domestic passengers. However, safety records have been improving in recent years.

Political party candidates have been campaigning across the country to market their plans on how they intend to lead one of Africa's top economies over the next four years, with the key issues being corruption, security and the economy.

Buhari is hoping his anti-corruption agenda can win him a second term while the main opposition candidate Atiku Abubakar has said he would consider an amnesty for corruption suspects and privatise the state-owned oil company NNPC.

A helicopter carrying Nigeria's Vice President crash-landed on Saturday en route to a political campaign two weeks before an election, but he survived the incident in central Kogi state unharmed, saying later he was safe and sound.

A helicopter carrying Nigeria's Vice President crash-landed on Saturday en route to a political campaign two weeks before an election, but he survived the incident in central Kogi state unharmed, saying later he was safe and sound. Nigerian go to the polls on February 16 to elect a new president in an election where the incumbent Muhammadu Buhari and his deputy have been touring the country to woo voters for a second term in office. A video on the Twitter account of the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, showed him cheering to supporters after the incident. He posted: "We are safe and sound!" The cause of the accident was not immediately clear. Spokesman Laolu Akande said the vice president was continuing his engagements in Kogi state. "VP Osinbajo's chopper crash lands in Kabba, but he and the entire crew is safe," the spokesman tweeted. Nigeria's airlines are plagued by problems - delays, cancellations and fuel shortages that are almost expected from domestic passengers. However, safety records have been improving in recent years. Political party candidates have been campaigning across the country to market their plans on how they intend to lead one of Africa's top economies over the next four years, with the key issues being corruption, security and the economy. Buhari is hoping his anti-corruption agenda can win him a second term while the main opposition candidate Atiku Abubakar has said he would consider an amnesty for corruption suspects and privatise the state-owned oil company NNPC.

Nigeria vice president survives chopper crash weeks before election

An Israeli former cabinet minister admitted to spying for Iran on Wednesday in a plea deal in exchange for an 11-year prison sentence, the Israeli Justice Ministry said.

Gonen Segev, energy minister from 1995 to 1996, was indicted in June. The Shin Bet internal security service said at the time he had been recruited by Iranian intelligence while living in Nigeria and had "served as an agent".

Investigators found that Segev made contact with officials at the Iranian embassy in Nigeria in 2012 and that he visited Iran twice for meetings with his handlers, the Shin Bet said.

Segev, it said, received an encrypted communications system from Iranian agents and supplied Iran with "information related to the energy sector, security sites in Israel and officials in political and security institutions".

Israel has long been locked in a shadow war with Iran, which supports Islamist guerrillas in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. Iran has accused Israel of being behind acts of sabotage and assassinations of scientists involved in its nuclear programme.

The court has yet to formally approve the prison sentence agreed with Segev, a physician, who had been jailed in 2004 for attempting to smuggle "Ecstasy" pills into Israel and left the country in 2007 after his release from prison.

He was arrested in May during a visit to Equatorial Guinea and extradited to Israel, Shin Bet said.

There was no immediate response from Iran to the Justice Ministry statement.

An Israeli former cabinet minister admitted to spying for Iran on Wednesday in a plea deal in exchange for an 11-year prison sentence, the Israeli Justice Ministry said.

An Israeli former cabinet minister admitted to spying for Iran on Wednesday in a plea deal in exchange for an 11-year prison sentence, the Israeli Justice Ministry said. Gonen Segev, energy minister from 1995 to 1996, was indicted in June. The Shin Bet internal security service said at the time he had been recruited by Iranian intelligence while living in Nigeria and had "served as an agent". Investigators found that Segev made contact with officials at the Iranian embassy in Nigeria in 2012 and that he visited Iran twice for meetings with his handlers, the Shin Bet said. Segev, it said, received an encrypted communications system from Iranian agents and supplied Iran with "information related to the energy sector, security sites in Israel and officials in political and security institutions". Israel has long been locked in a shadow war with Iran, which supports Islamist guerrillas in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. Iran has accused Israel of being behind acts of sabotage and assassinations of scientists involved in its nuclear programme. The court has yet to formally approve the prison sentence agreed with Segev, a physician, who had been jailed in 2004 for attempting to smuggle "Ecstasy" pills into Israel and left the country in 2007 after his release from prison. He was arrested in May during a visit to Equatorial Guinea and extradited to Israel, Shin Bet said. There was no immediate response from Iran to the Justice Ministry statement.

Israeli ex-minister pleads guilty to spying for Iran in exchange for prison sentence

At least 25 people were killed when armed men raided two villages in a northern Nigerian state wracked by cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom, witnesses and the police said on Friday.

Gunmen on motorcycles on Wednesday invaded the villages of Gidan Halilu and Gidan Kaka in Birnin Magaji district of Zamfara state, they said.

"We lost 25 people in the attacks, which were carried out by cattle thieves who have been terrorising us for years," Usman Wadatau, a community leader in Gidan Halilu, told AFP.

"We lost 16 people in Gidan Halilu and nine in Gidan Kaka," he said.

Four of those killed in Gidan Halilu were volunteers from nearby Nassarawa Godel who had mobilised to help fight off the attackers, Gidan Kaka resident Bube Mada said.&nbsp;

In the first attack, which occurred around 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the bandits opened fire on farmers harvesting sweet potatoes outside Gidan Halilu, killing nine, Mada told AFP.

"The gunmen left after the attack on the farm but returned around 5:00 pm when we were preparing the bodies of the victims for burial and opened fire on the mourners, killing three people," Wadatau said.

"Some people from our neighbours in Nassawa Godel mobilised to help but the attackers opened fire on them and killed four," he said.

"The gunmen moved to Gidan Kaka and shot dead nine residents," said Mada who supported Watadau's account.

Zamfara state police spokesman Mohammed Shehu confirmed the attacks but said only five people were killed.

"On getting to the scene, five corpses were recovered with one other person injured," Shehu said.

It is common in Nigeria for security personnel to give lower casualty figures.

Farming and herding communities in Zamfara have been terrorised for years by cattle thieves and kidnappers who raid villages, steal cows, abduct residents for ransom and burn homes.

The frequent attacks have prompted villages to form local militia for protection.

However, the villagers too are accused of carrying out extra-judicial killings of suspected bandits, leading to tit-for-tat violence.

In April, troops were deployed to Zamfara to fight the gangs and police banned the civilian militia in an attempt to curb the cycle of reprisals but the violence has continued.

Last month the police claimed to have killed 104 bandits in Birnin Magaji district during a clash in which 16 policemen were killed.

Early this month, an influential traditional ruler in the state called for civilian militia members to be given assault rifles to defend themselves.

At least 25 people were killed when armed men raided two villages in a northern Nigerian state wracked by cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom, witnesses and the police said on Friday.

At least 25 people were killed when armed men raided two villages in a northern Nigerian state wracked by cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom, witnesses and the police said on Friday. Gunmen on motorcycles on Wednesday invaded the villages of Gidan Halilu and Gidan Kaka in Birnin Magaji district of Zamfara state, they said. "We lost 25 people in the attacks, which were carried out by cattle thieves who have been terrorising us for years," Usman Wadatau, a community leader in Gidan Halilu, told AFP. "We lost 16 people in Gidan Halilu and nine in Gidan Kaka," he said. Four of those killed in Gidan Halilu were volunteers from nearby Nassarawa Godel who had mobilised to help fight off the attackers, Gidan Kaka resident Bube Mada said. In the first attack, which occurred around 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the bandits opened fire on farmers harvesting sweet potatoes outside Gidan Halilu, killing nine, Mada told AFP. "The gunmen left after the attack on the farm but returned around 5:00 pm when we were preparing the bodies of the victims for burial and opened fire on the mourners, killing three people," Wadatau said. "Some people from our neighbours in Nassawa Godel mobilised to help but the attackers opened fire on them and killed four," he said. "The gunmen moved to Gidan Kaka and shot dead nine residents," said Mada who supported Watadau's account. Zamfara state police spokesman Mohammed Shehu confirmed the attacks but said only five people were killed. "On getting to the scene, five corpses were recovered with one other person injured," Shehu said. It is common in Nigeria for security personnel to give lower casualty figures. Farming and herding communities in Zamfara have been terrorised for years by cattle thieves and kidnappers who raid villages, steal cows, abduct residents for ransom and burn homes. The frequent attacks have prompted villages to form local militia for protection. However, the villagers too are accused of carrying out extra-judicial killings of suspected bandits, leading to tit-for-tat violence. In April, troops were deployed to Zamfara to fight the gangs and police banned the civilian militia in an attempt to curb the cycle of reprisals but the violence has continued. Last month the police claimed to have killed 104 bandits in Birnin Magaji district during a clash in which 16 policemen were killed. Early this month, an influential traditional ruler in the state called for civilian militia members to be given assault rifles to defend themselves.

Gunmen kill 25 in northern Nigeria village raids

Nigerian soldiers intercepted a column of Boko Haram fighters on Friday near a military base in northeast Nigeria, triggering a fierce gun battle that killed three civilians, security sources told AFP.

A soldier was injured in the fight, which happened in Jakana village, some 30 kilometres (nearly 20 miles) from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri. In July, jihadists raided the military base in Jakana and burnt down a police station.

About 80 people were killed in a previous attack on Jakana and nearby Mainok in March 2013.

On Saturday, military sources said the latest incident saw troops fight a two-hour battle with fighters from the Islamic State-backed Boko Haram faction from 6:00 pm (1700 GMT) on Friday.

"It was an intense fight. Our troops saw them passing near the village and confronted them," a senior military officer told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"The terrorists were obviously heading toward the bush to congregate and launch an attack somewhere. One soldier was injured and three civilians caught up in the fight were killed."

A member of a civilian militia assisting the military with security said the jihadists fired at troops with anti-aircraft guns and rocket-propelled grenades.

"The terrorists did not intend to attack, they fought soldiers to defend themselves and escape," he added.

The fighting underlined the persistent threat to troops in the remote region, which has seen more than 20 attacks on military bases since July.

Two bases were attacked on Thursday and Friday in the Rann and Bama areas of Borno. Eight soldiers were killed in an attack last Saturday in the Yobe village of Buni Gari.

Most attacks on the military are blamed on, or claimed by, the self-styled Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Friday's fighting disrupted traffic along the main road between Maiduguri and the state capital of neighbouring Yobe state, Damaturu.

Boko Haram is active in the area and have on several occasions barricaded the road, killing motorists and burning vehicles.

Jakana lies near a route linking an ISWAP base in the Buni Yadi district of Yobe and its camps in the Konduga forest area of Borno.&nbsp;

Nigerian soldiers intercepted a column of Boko Haram fighters on Friday near a military base in northeast Nigeria, triggering a fierce gun battle that killed three civilians, security sources told AFP.

Nigerian soldiers intercepted a column of Boko Haram fighters on Friday near a military base in northeast Nigeria, triggering a fierce gun battle that killed three civilians, security sources told AFP. A soldier was injured in the fight, which happened in Jakana village, some 30 kilometres (nearly 20 miles) from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri. In July, jihadists raided the military base in Jakana and burnt down a police station. About 80 people were killed in a previous attack on Jakana and nearby Mainok in March 2013. On Saturday, military sources said the latest incident saw troops fight a two-hour battle with fighters from the Islamic State-backed Boko Haram faction from 6:00 pm (1700 GMT) on Friday. "It was an intense fight. Our troops saw them passing near the village and confronted them," a senior military officer told AFP on condition of anonymity. "The terrorists were obviously heading toward the bush to congregate and launch an attack somewhere. One soldier was injured and three civilians caught up in the fight were killed." A member of a civilian militia assisting the military with security said the jihadists fired at troops with anti-aircraft guns and rocket-propelled grenades. "The terrorists did not intend to attack, they fought soldiers to defend themselves and escape," he added. The fighting underlined the persistent threat to troops in the remote region, which has seen more than 20 attacks on military bases since July. Two bases were attacked on Thursday and Friday in the Rann and Bama areas of Borno. Eight soldiers were killed in an attack last Saturday in the Yobe village of Buni Gari. Most attacks on the military are blamed on, or claimed by, the self-styled Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Friday's fighting disrupted traffic along the main road between Maiduguri and the state capital of neighbouring Yobe state, Damaturu. Boko Haram is active in the area and have on several occasions barricaded the road, killing motorists and burning vehicles. Jakana lies near a route linking an ISWAP base in the Buni Yadi district of Yobe and its camps in the Konduga forest area of Borno.

Civilians killed as Nigerian troops fight Boko Haram at flashpoint village

Armed men kidnapped 15 girls overnight in southeastern Niger, the local mayor said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Boukar Mani Orthe, the mayor of Toumour in Niger`s Diffa region near the border with Nigeria, said about 50 unidentified armed men seized the girls in a village about 9 km (6 miles) from the town centre.&nbsp;

On Thursday suspected Boko Haram fighters killed eight people working at French drilling company Foraco`s water well site in Toumour.

Boko Haram has been waging an insurrection since 2009 aimed at establishing an Islamic state in northeast Nigeria. It has launched repeated attacks into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

The violence has killed thousands of civilians and forced millions to flee their homes in the large Lake Chad basin region.

Armed men kidnapped 15 girls overnight in southeastern Niger, the local mayor said on Saturday. Boukar Mani Orthe, the mayor of Toumour in Niger`s Diffa region near the border with Nigeria, said about 50 unidentified armed men seized the girls in a village about 9 km (6 miles) from the town centre.

Armed men kidnapped 15 girls overnight in southeastern Niger, the local mayor said on Saturday. Boukar Mani Orthe, the mayor of Toumour in Niger`s Diffa region near the border with Nigeria, said about 50 unidentified armed men seized the girls in a village about 9 km (6 miles) from the town centre. On Thursday suspected Boko Haram fighters killed eight people working at French drilling company Foraco`s water well site in Toumour. Boko Haram has been waging an insurrection since 2009 aimed at establishing an Islamic state in northeast Nigeria. It has launched repeated attacks into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon. The violence has killed thousands of civilians and forced millions to flee their homes in the large Lake Chad basin region.

Armed men kidnap 15 girls in southeastern Niger: Mayor

Hundreds of villagers fled their homes in Nigeria's northeast late on Saturday after an attack by Islamist militants from the Boko Haram group, militia officials and witnesses said.

No casualties were reported but the raid highlighted fragile security in Nigeria's northeast, where the army is still battling to end a conflict that erupted in 2009.

Militants arrived in trucks in Jimmi, 5 km (3 miles) from Maiduguri city, and opened fire, setting homes ablaze and also attacking an informal refugee camp.&nbsp;

"Boko Haram terrorists this evening attacked Jimmi village," militia leader in Maiduguri Musa Ari said. "They burnt homes in Jimmi and tents in the camp."

Military authorities scrambled reinforcements and fighter jets to repel the attack, said militia leader Ibrahim Liman.

Panicked villagers from the area fled to nearby Maiduguri, capital of Borno state which along with neighbouring Yobe state has been at the centre of the jihadist insurgency.

"We left our village to escape Boko Haram who attacked our neighbours in Jimmi," said Bale-Shuwa village resident Suleiman Balarabe.

He said villagers saw military jets flying overhead towards Jimmi.

"The sounds of guns coming from Jimmi terrified us and made us leave our homes because we were afraid they were going to attack our neighbourhood," said Sanda Gini, a resident&nbsp;of Jiddari-Polo area on the outskirts of Maiduguri.

In April, scores of Boko Haram fighters launched a gun and suicide attack on Jiddari-Polo when they advanced on Giwa barracks where hundreds of their militant comrades are being detained.

Insurgents fired automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades at troops before they were repelled with aerial support.

Despite government insistence Boko Haram jihadists are near defeat, in recent months the militant group has carried out major attacks on military targets, killing dozens.

Boko Haram's nine-year conflict has killed an estimated 27,000 people and displaced two million, creating a humanitarian crisis and spilling into Nigeria's northern neighbours.

Hundreds of villagers fled their homes in Nigeria's northeast late on Saturday after an attack by Islamist militants from the Boko Haram group, militia officials and witnesses said.

Hundreds of villagers fled their homes in Nigeria's northeast late on Saturday after an attack by Islamist militants from the Boko Haram group, militia officials and witnesses said. No casualties were reported but the raid highlighted fragile security in Nigeria's northeast, where the army is still battling to end a conflict that erupted in 2009. Militants arrived in trucks in Jimmi, 5 km (3 miles) from Maiduguri city, and opened fire, setting homes ablaze and also attacking an informal refugee camp. "Boko Haram terrorists this evening attacked Jimmi village," militia leader in Maiduguri Musa Ari said. "They burnt homes in Jimmi and tents in the camp." Military authorities scrambled reinforcements and fighter jets to repel the attack, said militia leader Ibrahim Liman. Panicked villagers from the area fled to nearby Maiduguri, capital of Borno state which along with neighbouring Yobe state has been at the centre of the jihadist insurgency. "We left our village to escape Boko Haram who attacked our neighbours in Jimmi," said Bale-Shuwa village resident Suleiman Balarabe. He said villagers saw military jets flying overhead towards Jimmi. "The sounds of guns coming from Jimmi terrified us and made us leave our homes because we were afraid they were going to attack our neighbourhood," said Sanda Gini, a resident of Jiddari-Polo area on the outskirts of Maiduguri. In April, scores of Boko Haram fighters launched a gun and suicide attack on Jiddari-Polo when they advanced on Giwa barracks where hundreds of their militant comrades are being detained. Insurgents fired automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades at troops before they were repelled with aerial support. Despite government insistence Boko Haram jihadists are near defeat, in recent months the militant group has carried out major attacks on military targets, killing dozens. Boko Haram's nine-year conflict has killed an estimated 27,000 people and displaced two million, creating a humanitarian crisis and spilling into Nigeria's northern neighbours.

Hundreds flee after Boko Haram militant raid in northeast Nigeria

Egypt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nigeria&nbsp;continued their recent poor form in&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event.

Belgium eased past&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week.

Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime.

Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia.

Egypt&nbsp;was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector&nbsp;Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15.

Nigeria&nbsp;turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.

Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.

Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated.

The&nbsp;Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week.

Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King.

Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played.

But Palestinian football officials praised&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa.

“The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week

Egypt and Nigeria continued their recent poor form in World Cup warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event. Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week. Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime. Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia. Egypt was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15. Nigeria turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the World Cup. Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated. The Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week. Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King. Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World Cup finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half. Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played. But Palestinian football officials praised World Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa. “The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah. Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

FIFA World Cup: Egypt, Nigeria continue to splutter in World Cup warm-ups

The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world

FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup

At least 45 people died in an attack on a village in northern Nigeria, a police official told Reuters on Sunday, the latest in a string of incidents underscoring insecurity in parts of the country.

President Muhammadu Buhari won Nigeria`s 2015 elections partly on promises to bring security to Africa`s largest economy and most populous nation, but has struggled to fulfil those pledges. He is now seeking a second term in February 2019.

His critics and opponents question his track record tackling the multitude of conflicts that plague Nigeria, from Boko Haram and a thriving Islamic State West Africa insurgency in the northeast, to clashes between farmers and herders in the hinterlands that have left hundreds dead.

It was not immediately clear why the Gwaska village in the northern state of Kaduna was attacked on Saturday.

"Yesterday we recovered 12 corpses and today we retrieved 33," Austin Iwar, Kaduna`s commissioner of police, told Reuters by phone.

The village, in the Birnin-Gwari area of Kaduna, lies near an area known for banditry, where thick forests provide remote hideouts from law enforcement.

Those groups of bandits have for years frustrated authorities` attempts to apprehend them, and in some cases have amassed thousands of stolen cattle and fought off security agent task forces sent to deal with them.

President Muhammadu Buhari won Nigeria`s 2015 elections partly on promises to bring security to Africa`s largest economy and most populous nation, but has struggled to fulfil those pledges

At least 45 people died in an attack on a village in northern Nigeria, a police official told Reuters on Sunday, the latest in a string of incidents underscoring insecurity in parts of the country. President Muhammadu Buhari won Nigeria`s 2015 elections partly on promises to bring security to Africa`s largest economy and most populous nation, but has struggled to fulfil those pledges. He is now seeking a second term in February 2019. His critics and opponents question his track record tackling the multitude of conflicts that plague Nigeria, from Boko Haram and a thriving Islamic State West Africa insurgency in the northeast, to clashes between farmers and herders in the hinterlands that have left hundreds dead. It was not immediately clear why the Gwaska village in the northern state of Kaduna was attacked on Saturday. "Yesterday we recovered 12 corpses and today we retrieved 33," Austin Iwar, Kaduna`s commissioner of police, told Reuters by phone. The village, in the Birnin-Gwari area of Kaduna, lies near an area known for banditry, where thick forests provide remote hideouts from law enforcement. Those groups of bandits have for years frustrated authorities` attempts to apprehend them, and in some cases have amassed thousands of stolen cattle and fought off security agent task forces sent to deal with them.

At least 45 dead in attack on Nigerian village, police say

Over two dozens were killed in a twin attack that jolted Nigeria on Tuesday.

The attacks that killed at least 27 and injured about 56 were carried out by two suicide bombers.

One of the blasts took place in Nigeria's Mubi town in Adamawa inside a mosque, while the other&nbsp;bomber exploded the explosive 200 metres outside the same mosque.&nbsp;

The blast is reportedly&nbsp;planted by the Islamist group Boko Haram who is&nbsp;frequently involved in carrying out bombs attacks&nbsp;in various parts of Africa.

Boka Haram has waged an insurgency war against Africa's most populous country since 2009.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

One of the blasts took place in Nigeria's Mubi town in Adamawa inside a mosque, while the other bomber exploded the explosive 200 metres outside the same mosque

Over two dozens were killed in a twin attack that jolted Nigeria on Tuesday. The attacks that killed at least 27 and injured about 56 were carried out by two suicide bombers. One of the blasts took place in Nigeria's Mubi town in Adamawa inside a mosque, while the other bomber exploded the explosive 200 metres outside the same mosque. The blast is reportedly planted by the Islamist group Boko Haram who is frequently involved in carrying out bombs attacks in various parts of Africa. Boka Haram has waged an insurgency war against Africa's most populous country since 2009. (With inputs from Reuters)

Twin blasts shock Nigeria, 27 killed

Explosions in and around a mosque in northeast Nigeria killed at least 20 people on Tuesday, police said.

The blasts in the town of Mubi bore the hallmarks of Islamist militant group Boko Haram, which has waged an insurgency in Africa's most populous country since 2009 and often deploys suicide bombers in crowded places.

Adamawa State police spokesman Othman Abubakar says an explosion occurred during prayers Tuesday afternoon and many people died as they fled and were caught by a second blast.

The jihadist group on Thursday carried out an attack in Maiduguri, capital of neighbouring Borno state, that killed four people.

More than 30,000 people have been killed in the insurgency, which has also forced some two million to flee their homes.

Abdullahi Yerima, police commissioner in Adamawa state, said a suicide bomber struck at the mosque at around 01:00 p.m. (1200 GMT) and a second bomber detonated a device some 200 metres (220 yards) away as worshippers fled.

"About 20 people have died", he said, adding that more than a dozen were hurt.

&nbsp;

The blasts in the town of Mubi bore the hallmarks of Islamist militant group Boko Haram, which has waged an insurgency in Africa's most populous country since 2009 and often deploys suicide bombers in crowded places

Explosions in and around a mosque in northeast Nigeria killed at least 20 people on Tuesday, police said. The blasts in the town of Mubi bore the hallmarks of Islamist militant group Boko Haram, which has waged an insurgency in Africa's most populous country since 2009 and often deploys suicide bombers in crowded places. Adamawa State police spokesman Othman Abubakar says an explosion occurred during prayers Tuesday afternoon and many people died as they fled and were caught by a second blast. The jihadist group on Thursday carried out an attack in Maiduguri, capital of neighbouring Borno state, that killed four people. More than 30,000 people have been killed in the insurgency, which has also forced some two million to flee their homes. Abdullahi Yerima, police commissioner in Adamawa state, said a suicide bomber struck at the mosque at around 01:00 p.m. (1200 GMT) and a second bomber detonated a device some 200 metres (220 yards) away as worshippers fled. "About 20 people have died", he said, adding that more than a dozen were hurt.

Blasts at mosque kill at least 20 in northeast Nigeria: Police

Two brides from Nigeria were propelled to leave their wedding and write their final exams on April 7, dressed in their wedding attire, reports said.&nbsp;

Two final year students of Mass Communications quickly attended their wedding ceremonies and rushed to the respective exam venues due to clashes in dates.&nbsp;

Dorcas Atsea and Deborah Atoh had fixed their wedding dates when the exam, originally scheduled for February, was postponed due to inadequate facilities at the Benue State University in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, reports said.&nbsp;

The two women tried to find a solution and tried to speak to the exam officer when she gave them an ultimatum of choosing one of the two options - wedding or exam.&nbsp;

As soon as they entered the exam hall, students began showering them with wishes, cheers, and applause.

Course lecturer Dr Benjamin Ogbu reportedly said that it was unfair to change the dayes for the exam for just one or two people as it would have involved a long and tedious process. &nbsp;

In February, a similar incident happened in Patna when a bride rushed to give her exam right after her wedding, while the groom waited outside for three hours - the incident had soon caught everyone's attention.&nbsp;

Two final year students of Mass Communications quickly attended their wedding ceremonies and rushed to the respective exam venues due to clashes in dates

Two brides from Nigeria were propelled to leave their wedding and write their final exams on April 7, dressed in their wedding attire, reports said. Two final year students of Mass Communications quickly attended their wedding ceremonies and rushed to the respective exam venues due to clashes in dates. Dorcas Atsea and Deborah Atoh had fixed their wedding dates when the exam, originally scheduled for February, was postponed due to inadequate facilities at the Benue State University in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, reports said. The two women tried to find a solution and tried to speak to the exam officer when she gave them an ultimatum of choosing one of the two options - wedding or exam. As soon as they entered the exam hall, students began showering them with wishes, cheers, and applause. Course lecturer Dr Benjamin Ogbu reportedly said that it was unfair to change the dayes for the exam for just one or two people as it would have involved a long and tedious process. In February, a similar incident happened in Patna when a bride rushed to give her exam right after her wedding, while the groom waited outside for three hours - the incident had soon caught everyone's attention.

Two Nigeria brides attempt final exam in wedding gowns

More than a dozen people were killed in a clash between suspected Boko Haram militants and Nigerian soldiers in Northern Nigeria.

Reportedly around 18 militants including suicide bombers, mortars and gunmen targeted two villages namely Bale Shuwa and Alkaranti and a military base near the city of Maiduguri, in Borno State.

A cross-firing took place between the soldiers and the militants which reportedly left 14 civilians and a soldier dead.

Further 83 others sustained injuries in the attack.

As per the government statement, it was the largest attack since it initiated bilateral talks with the Islamist militants to consider a proposed peace process.

Further 83 others sustained injuries in the attack

More than a dozen people were killed in a clash between suspected Boko Haram militants and Nigerian soldiers in Northern Nigeria. Reportedly around 18 militants including suicide bombers, mortars and gunmen targeted two villages namely Bale Shuwa and Alkaranti and a military base near the city of Maiduguri, in Borno State. A cross-firing took place between the soldiers and the militants which reportedly left 14 civilians and a soldier dead. Further 83 others sustained injuries in the attack. As per the government statement, it was the largest attack since it initiated bilateral talks with the Islamist militants to consider a proposed peace process.

14 civilians killed in clash between Nigerian Army, Boko Haram militants

Gunmen believed to be cattle thieves killed 15 herders in the latest bout of violence in northern Nigeria's herding communities, police and a local official said Thursday.&nbsp;

"Armed bandits attacked Bawon-Daji village yesterday and killed 15 people," the police spokesman for Zamfara state, Muhammad Shehu, told AFP.&nbsp;

His account was corroborated by a senior local government official, Gado Anka.

Anka told AFP motorcycle-riding gunmen stormed the remote village in Anka district around 1:00 pm (1200GMT), shooting dead 12 residents before fleeing to a hideout in the bush.&nbsp;

"They returned two hours later and attacked mourners during the funeral of the victims in the cemetery, killing three more and injuring several others," he said.&nbsp;

Rural communities in the agrarian state are under siege from gangs who kill, loot and torching homes.&nbsp;

This has prompted villages to form vigilante groups -- which in turn are often accused of extra-judicial killings of suspected cattle thieves, prompting deadly reprisals by the gangs.&nbsp;

It was not clear if the latest killings were as a result of reprisals.&nbsp;

In February, dozens of people were killed when gunmen opened fire on traders and villagers at Birane, in the Zurmi area of the state.&nbsp;

Gunmen believed to be cattle thieves killed 15 herders in the latest bout of violence in northern Nigeria's herding communities, police and a local official said Thursday

Gunmen believed to be cattle thieves killed 15 herders in the latest bout of violence in northern Nigeria's herding communities, police and a local official said Thursday. "Armed bandits attacked Bawon-Daji village yesterday and killed 15 people," the police spokesman for Zamfara state, Muhammad Shehu, told AFP. His account was corroborated by a senior local government official, Gado Anka. Anka told AFP motorcycle-riding gunmen stormed the remote village in Anka district around 1:00 pm (1200GMT), shooting dead 12 residents before fleeing to a hideout in the bush. "They returned two hours later and attacked mourners during the funeral of the victims in the cemetery, killing three more and injuring several others," he said. Rural communities in the agrarian state are under siege from gangs who kill, loot and torching homes. This has prompted villages to form vigilante groups -- which in turn are often accused of extra-judicial killings of suspected cattle thieves, prompting deadly reprisals by the gangs. It was not clear if the latest killings were as a result of reprisals. In February, dozens of people were killed when gunmen opened fire on traders and villagers at Birane, in the Zurmi area of the state.

Gunmen kill 15 herders in northern Nigeria

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