18 villagers shot dead at mosque in Nigeria, say officials

At least 18 villagers died in northern Nigeria after gunmen attacked a mosque during early morning prayers on Monday.

At least 18 worshippers were killed by gunmen who attacked a mosque in northern Nigeria during early morning prayers Monday, local authorities and police told The Associated Press.

The attack took place in Mazakuka village in Mashegu local government area of the country's Niger state. The attackers, believed to be ethnic Fulani nomadic herders, were able to escape.