International monitors have praised Saturday's local elections in Nigeria, saying they augur well for state and national elections due early next year -- the next stages of the planned return to civilian rule.

Results from the local polls show a clear lead for the People's Democratic Party -- formed by politicians opposed to the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha.

In second place is the All Peoples Party, made up of politicians that formerly backed General Abacha.

A third party, the Alliance for Democracy, dominated the poll in southwest of the country.

All three parties are expected to qualify to take part in the national elections.