Here’s some of the so-called “justification” for these attacks (from http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/11/06/death-toll-rises-to-over-100-in-nigeria-attacks/?test=latestnews )

“Boko Haram claimed responsibility for the attacks Friday, which included suicide bombings and shootings.
Boko Haram wants to implement strict Shariah law across Nigeria, an oil-rich nation of more than 160 million which has a predominantly Christian south and a Muslim north. Its name means "Western education is sacrilege" in the local Hausa language, but instead of schooling, it rejects Western ideals like Nigeria's U.S.-styled democracy that followers believe have destroyed the country with corrupt politicians.”

Isn't "new" slightly a misnomer for this kind of "news"? They were doing that sort of thing back in Burnt Njal's time. Isn't "Tribe raids tribe" kind of like "dog bites man"? It is "Tribe doesn't raid tribe" that is news, and the only reason newsmen don't catch it is that they take it for granted.

Looks like the start of it was when some Muslims attacked a church. It appears (and I stress "appears") that the Christians fought back - justifying this vengeance (if you can call it that) months later.

P.S.: Always a pleasure to hear from you, Roberto.