A split has emerged within Burkina Faso's armed forces over who is leading the country following the resignation of President Blaise Campaore after 27 years in power.

The presidential guard's second in command, Colonel Isaac Zida, says he has assumed power as head of state.

Earlier, army chief General Honore Traore said he had taken over.

Crowds danced and cheered in the capital Ouagadougou after Mr Compaore's resignation was announced on Friday.

It came a day after protesters angry at his attempt to amend the constitution and extend his 27-year hold on the presidency set fire to parliament and government buildings.

Speaking on Saturday, Col Zida said Gen Traore's claim to be head of state was now "obsolete".

"I now assume... the responsibilities of head of the transition and of head of state to assure the continuation of the state" and a "smooth democratic transition", said Col Zida in a televised address quoted by AFP news agency.

And Reuters quoted Col Zida, in a statement read out on local radio, as saying: "I assume the functions of head of state and I call on (West African regional bloc) Ecowas and the international community to demonstrate their understanding and support the new authorities."Friday saw Mr Compaore issue a statement saying the presidency was now vacant, and urging elections within 90 days.

His whereabouts are now unclear.

Under Article 43 of the constitution, the president of the senate should take over after the president resigns, and elections should take place between 60 and 90 days afterwards.

However, the military announced a state of emergency and the dissolution of both houses of parliament on Thursday - effectively leaving a power vacuum.

(BBC)