In Nigeria, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta has welcomed the release of its leader Henry Okah. The MEND rebels say they are now ready to enter talks with the government.

Mr Okah was freed on Monday evening. With the move, the government acceded to one of the main conditions insisted on by the rebel group.

However, observers doubt the breakthrough will bring attacks on oil installations in the Niger delta to an end. They point out that many other rebel groups are still operating in the area.

Just a few hours before Mr Okah was released, MEND fighters launched an attack against facilities in the port of Lagos in which five people were killed. It was the first time the rebels hit Lagos, Nigeria's economic centre.

photo: MEND rebels and hostages (flickr/ISN Security Watch)