Security forces in Nigeria have arrested Kaloma Ali, a former minister of solid minerals and close associate of the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha.

No reason was given for the arrest of Mr Ali, which occurred yesterday in his office in the northern city of Kano, but correspondents say that he may have been suspected of corruption.

They say that his public support for General Abacha's son, Mohammed, who is on trial for murder, has also annoyed the new democratic government of President Obasanjo.

Mr Ali has reportedly been taken to the capital, Abuja.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service