The government has said it can no longer afford the subsidies. The protests came as the authorities in the oil-rich southern region of Bayelsa lifted a state of emergency imposed last week during clashes that left at least 20 people dead in the Niger delta region. Those clashes came against the background of an ultimatum issued by several ethnic Ijaw communities in that region. The ultimatum expired on December 30. But over the weekend, a temporary peace agreement was worked between the Ijaw community and government troops protecting oil installations in the state.
Many towns exist in abject poverty without electricity, clean water or medical clinics.
Ethnic groups have for years protested the government's mismanagement of the oil industry and have demanded greater compensation for the use of their land. Gen. Abubakar's military government increased troop strength in the region over the weekend to quell the disturbances, which threatened the revenue base of the country in the countdown to the restoration of civilian rule next May, when Abubakar is expected to hand over power to a civilian administration. The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report. The CIA World Factbook - Nigeria External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive. All Rights Reserved.