Nigerian protesters block roads

2003-05-28 11:48

Kano - Protesters opposed to the re-election of Nigeria's President Olusegun Obasanjo erected barricades of burning tyres in the northern city of Kano on Wednesday.

But there was a huge security presence in the city a day ahead of a ceremony to swear in Obasanjo for his second term, and by daybreak police had cleared the main Maiduguri Road after the overnight protest.

At least 10 makeshift barriers had been put up by groups angered by Obasanjo's victory in last month's elections, the first since Nigeria's return to civilian rule, which the opposition claims were rigged.

In Kano the main opposition All Nigeria People's Party (ANPP) won state and parliamentary polls, but nationwide Obasanjo's People's Democratic Party (PDP) was well ahead and the incumbent easily won the April 19 presidential vote.

Opposition parties have gone to court to challenge the result, but Obasanjo's victory has been recognised by the international community and he is due to be sworn in on Thursday at a ceremony in Abuja.

The Nigerian police have vowed to quell any attempts to derail the political process through unrest and accused opposition leaders of inciting violence.

- AFX