Outsiders arm militant Muslims in Nigeria, bishops fear

May 02, 2011

Religious clashes in Nigeria have caused at least 300 deaths, destroyed 300 homes, and driven 14,000 people from their homes, the Nigerian bishops’ conference reports.

The violence in north-central Nigeria following mid-April elections was touched off by militant Muslims, according to a report from the bishops’ conference. The report suggests that extremists have been supplied—presumably by outsiders—with large quantities of sophisticated weapons.

 

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Further information:

• Clashes in northern Nigeria: a report of “Justice and Peace” complains that "someone has armed extremists" (Fides)