'Dozens of children die' in Nigerian lead poisoning

Abuja, 29 Aug-(ANA)-As many as 30 children have died of lead poisoning in northern Nigeria over the past week, authorities believe.

Scores of people - mostly children - have already died this year in Zamfara state, poisoned by lead-contaminated waste from illegal gold mining.

The latest deaths occurred in a remote village near the town of Anka.

But officials have not been able to confirm the reports because rainy-season downpours have prevented them from getting to the area. (ANA)

FA/ANA/29 August 2010----------