Seven hostages killed by Islamic extremists in Nigeria

European diplomats said seven foreign hostages kidnapped in Nigeria had been killed as claimed by Islamic extremists, the worst such foreign abduction violence to hit the West African nation in decades.

Both Britain and Italy said all seven of those taken from northern Bauchi state on Feb 16 were killed by the group known as Ansaru.

Greece also confirmed one of its citizens was killed, while Lebanese authorities did not immediately comment.