Tensions ran high in many places across Nigeria on Sunday as results began to emerge from state elections that were marred by rigging and violence.
Local newspapers estimated about 50 people were killed in fighting linked to irregularities in yesterday's poll, which should give an indication of the outcome of the presidential election on April 21st due to lead to President Olusegun Obasanjo stepping down.
The ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) held onto five out of seven states for which results were announced by the electoral body, the opposition All Nigeria People's Party held one and the southeastern state of Abia swung to the People's Progressive Alliance.