Dozens killed in clash at the Yoruba palace in Nigeria

Dozens are feared dead after a clash between armed members of a militant Yoruba nationalist movement and guards in southwestern Nigeria.

The fighting broke out on when members of the Odua Peoples' Congress approached the palace of the Oba, or tribal king, in the village of Owo.

The congress, known by its initials, OPC, has been banned for its alleged role in armed attacks on police and military installations resulting in several deaths since 1999.

The militant group at one time called for a separate Yoruba state and vigilante killings of suspected criminals, according to reports.

More recently, it has been accused of taking sides in a dispute in Owo over who should hold the Oba's title.

There are also unconfirmed reports the Odua militants involved in the fighting were returning home from the funeral of Nigerian Justice Minister Bola Ige, who was assassinated on December 23.

Police could not be reached for comment.