24 killed in Nigeria's clashes

At least 24 people were killed during an ethnic violence that engulfed remote town of Wukari in Nigeria's northern state of Tarab, officials said today.

The clash between Jukun and Hausa/Fulani ethnic groups yesterday also left several persons injured, local hospital sources said.

The town has been placed under a 24-hour curfew by the state government to forestall further violence.

More than 20 people were killed in a similar confrontation in February.

Nigeria's population stands at 150 million and their are more than 250 ethnic groups.

Clashes are often caused by religious, ethnic or land ownership issues.