
Foreign secretary William Hague has condemned bomb attacks on several churches in Nigeria.
Radical Muslim sect Boko Haram claimed responsibility for an explosion during Christmas Mass at a Catholic church near Nigeria's capital that left 25 people dead and another bombing in the city of Jos.
Explosions also struck the nation's north-east - one blast struck a church in the north-eastern town of Gadaka and two explosions rocked the northern city of Damaturu, making five blasts in total.
The assaults come a year after a series of Christmas Eve bombings in Jos claimed by the militants left at least 32 dead and 74 wounded.
Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "I condemn today's bomb attacks in or near churches in Nigeria.
"These are cowardly attacks on families gathered in peace and prayer to celebrate a day which symbolises harmony and goodwill towards others.
"I offer my condolences to the bereaved and injured."
The Vatican has denounced the attacks as a sign of "cruelty and absurd, blind hatred" that shows no respect for human life.
PA
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