Nigeria warned Miss World contestants to steer clear...

Nigeria warned Miss World contestants to steer clear of parts of the country practising sharia law during the pageant's finals in the capital, Abuja, in November.The contest has been threatened with disruption by Islamist groups from Nigeria's predominantly Muslim north, with many objecting to the swimsuit parade in particular."We have told the people [organisers] not to allow the ladies to go to Zamfara and other sharia states because of the risks involved," said Boma Bromillow-Jack, the culture and tourism minister.At least two women have been sentenced to death by stoning for having sex outside marriage in the 12 Nigerian states which impose Islamic law. Others have been flogged for being improperly dressed.Nigeria applied to host the event after a Nigerian, Agbani Darego, became the first black African to win the title in 2001. Her victory caused widespread rejoicing in the mainly-Christian south, with some commentators saying it would offer hope in a country where women are often forced into prostitution, and where people-trafficking is rife.