Nigeria shies on Palestinian UN bid

Nigeria is refusing to say how it will vote when the United Nations Security Council decides on the Palestinians' request for UN membership, as increasing diplomatic pressure mounts on the oil-rich West African nation.

Nigeria appears to be a crucial vote as Palestinians try to secure support from at least nine of the 15 council members. The United States has said it will veto the request. However, the US could avoid that if Palestinians fail to get those nine votes. (AP)