Oil rig workers seized in Nigeria

The American oil company, ChevronTexaco, has said that 88 of its workers are being held hostage on an oil rig off western Nigeria by local youths.

The hostages include 22 foreigners.

Company official Dick Filgate said that about 40 youths in boats had approached the rig and 20 of them had boarded it.

He said the incident happened on Sunday, although details have only just been released.

The rig is about 8km (5 miles) off the town of Escravos.

It is believed the hostage-takers are demanding jobs.

"They mobilised a bunch of boats and people and occupied one of the drilling rigs," Mr Filgate said.

"The people on board the rig went inside and locked their doors."

He said the youths did not appear to be armed and the workers did not feel threatened.

Regional authorities had been informed and talks are being arranged.