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MEMEBERS of the Academic Staff Union of Univeristies (ASUU) on Monday, in Enugu, staged a peaceful demonstration over the continued delay by the South-East governors in implementing the re-negotiated agreement which took efect from July 1, 2009.

The issues re-negotiated were conditions of service in Nigerian universities, funding of Nigerian universities, univeristy autonomy and academic freedom, and other matters connected with running the universities.

But if not for a team of armed policemen, who prevented the angry lecturers from marching to Government House, Enugu, where they had scheduled to formally present their griviances to the Chairman of South- East Governors’ Forum, Mr Peter Obi, through the Enugu State governor, Mr. Sullivan Chime, the protesters would have gone beyond the Enugu campus of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).

The universitiy teachers in their academic gowns marched to the main entrance to the Enugu campus and were told by the security operatives to carry out their action within the campus environment.

At this point, the protesters began their solidarity songs. “South-East good people, bad leaders” rented the air.

Some of the placards carried by the striking leactures read: “South-East Governors lack Education Consciousness,” “State universities started first in South-East but today they are dying”, “South- East Governors Release 20% of security votes for eduaction “, “South-East Governors Stop paying lip service to education.

Addressing newsmen later, the Chairman of the Strike Coordinating Committee in the South-East State Universities, Dr Victor Emmanuel Osodeke, said that it was disheartnening that governors of South-East zone, called on the Federal Government not to commit state university authorities in the agrement, wondering if there were parallel Nigerian University Commissin or ASUU in the country.

About multi-level marketing business

The rank of unemployed citizens has continued to grow: new school-leavers, loss of jobs to privatization,concessioning and consolidations, civil service reforms and downsizing, etc.Though the ultimate effect of ongoing reforms should be healthy for theeconomy, the immediate job-loss impact is huge. As this is written, the FederalGovernment is in the process of disengaging over 33,000 employees from itsworkforce. Now, add the countless number that's merely hanging on to jobs theyhave since mentally disengaged from but cannot leave until they find analternative and you begin to get an idea of the size of the job market. Thesupply side, that is.

Self-employment As A Viable Way Out
Interestingly, many more people are finding wisdom in self-employment. At arecent workshop of the Fate Foundation on generation of business ideas, one wasamazed at the massive turnout, an eye-opener that an increasing number ischoosing to go it alone, if only the right business ideas can be discovered.

The Odds You Face
No doubt, starting a business is a challenging project. People worry about therisk of failure. People worry about meeting the capital requirement, which forany business of significance will run into a few hundreds of thousands or, morelikely, some millions. There is worry about a proven product to sell or serviceto render. There is concern, too, about procurement sources and reliability.What about finding the right hands to work with you, a factor that could definesuccess or failure? The bottom-line: it takes guts and grit.

This Has Worked For Many In America and Elsewhere
Network marketing is, by any account, a smart way to play big, even withlimited resources. As Robert Butwin aptly captured it in his Street Smart NetworkMarketing, " where else but in Network Marketing can the average manor woman invest few hundred dollars - with the real potential of earning asmuch as the CEO of a successful corporation?"

So, here are the attractions of Network Marketing

1. It offers a business platform thatmoderates the risk of business take-off. After all, the company offering theproduct is already in operation and running smoothly. If it wasn't, why wouldyou select such a company? There is also a tested business model. The networkmarketing company develops a viable system which distributors are trained toapply. Joining such company therefore provides a highly protected framework forstarting a business, while assuring of some potential earnings milestones. Youjust duplicate the system.

2. By design, MLM ensures that you getgenerous assistance in building your business. How? The success of the companyas well as your upline (the person that introduced you and those above him),depends on the results you achieve. It's therefore in their self-interest toprovide all the training and support to give you a head-start and get you inthe driving seat. This will include marketing materials (videos, brochures,publications, tapes, samples, etc), seminars, conferences and other programmesto give you the leverage to perform.

3. Capital requirement is minimal.Network marketing simply expects you to buy only a few products on a regularbasis and, more importantly, to promote the products to your relations,friends, associates, colleagues, etc and encourage them to buy and enroll asdistributors. No stocking, no warehousing, no bank loans, no insurance cover,no sales team! Often, this will not cost more that a few thousands of Naira. Ifyou are unable to use some or all of the products you buy, you retail them andrecoup your money with profit! So with much less than N50,000, you aretruly in a business that could take you to any level.

4. Most companies have generouscompensation plans (that is, the commissions and other incentives). How is thispossible? The MLM companies sell on person-to-person basis and so save the hugeamounts spent by big companies on extensive advertising and running a largein-house sales force. The customer-distributors get a piece of this saving byway of commissions. Why? They are the ones selling for the company and savingthe money. The compensation plans are structured to confer more rewards as youcontribute more and climb in the system. In addition to commissions, cars,yachts, jets and sponsored holiday trips often form part of the package. One ofthe MLM companies is known to be giving out brand new BMW cars to qualifyingNigerian members.

5. Your earnings are literallydetermined by you. You no longer have to wait for a promotion or salary reviewby the employer to enhance your earnings. Simply set your goals, drive yourselfand earn what you work for. In a sense, there is no limit. How much is arealistic expectation? It's up to you. Abroad, where they've been on this for awhile, huge figures are common. In Nigeria, a sizeable number already picks afew millions every month. Want to confirm? It's simple: spend some time andmake enquiries from members of Alivemax,Green world,Ardyss, Tahitian Noni,Forever Living.etc

6. There is no other business where youcan 'employ' a lot of people to work for you without paying a huge salary bill.In network marketing you pay none. Who works for you? Everybody in yourdownline. That's how it works. So, with a downline of, say, 1000 active people,working hard to grow their own businesses, you literally have 1000 men workingfor you because you earn commissions from each person's activities. And you payno salary! Can you beat that?

Give Yourself A Break And Get Going
It's time to get going, now that you have a vehicle to ride to businesssuccess. You'd probably want to know if anything could go wrong with thisseemingly rosy picture. Yes, you could pick the wrong company. So you mustchoose well. It could be the wrong product, with questionable product value.This will not sustain a long-term performance, so, research the product. Itcould also be you lacking in personal vision, passion or drive for superiorresults. Network marketing simply provides an opportunity. The life-changingresults will come from your personal commitment. I'm sure you have what ittakes to take charge and drive yourself to success.

How to succeed in online multi-level marketingbusiness

Can you imagine what life would be like if you had absolute control on your time? Have you ever dreamedof making lots of money from something you or anybody can do without the needto be a degree or diploma holder? What about doing those things you love themost anytime, anywhere and with anyone you desire?

If the above are your expectation, then consider seriously being a part of atested online multi-level marketing business.

What is multi-level marketing?

It is a system used by some companies to sell their goods or services through a network of distributors.Today this industry is generating billion worth of revenues yearly. You couldachieve the aforementioned if you choose a legitimate multi-level marketingbusiness. The fact is there are lots of frauds out there, and so extreme careis advisable.

There are thousands of genuine multi-level marketing opportunities out there,some of the reasons that some people think that they are fraud or a scam issimply because they did not succeed. There is a difference between beingunsuccessful in a multi-level marketing business and for a program to be fraud.

Any multi-level marketing business is relatively the same as anytraditional business, if you do not work hard, then you will not reap anyrewards. That is one of the most common mistakes that people do, they thinkthat they will just sign up and wait for the cash to roll in. It does not workthat way. Any business requires hard work, and multi-level marketing businessis not an exception. You still have to work hard to make money out of it. Thatis the general rule in any business. So making money in network marketingbusiness is actually happening,

Factors that can cause failure in multi-level marketing business

1. Choice

Choosing the wrong multi-level network company is one factor that makes it hard for some people toearn money. Or lead to failure

2.individual determination/hard work

Another factor responsible for failures in multi-level marketing business can be blamed on people whothink it’s a free lunch, and do not work hard on the business. People shouldlearn to accept responsibility if things did not go for them as planned. Thesecompanies are only there to offer you an opportunity, and it solely depends onyou to make that opportunity work for you. It is really all about you.

3. Research

When choosing a multi-level marketing business, it is important that the business has solid reputation. Youshould do a lot of research and find out what other people say about them. Itis quite expected that you will come across several negative feedbacks aboutthe company. You should be objective about the comments and try to find out iffeedbacks are genuine. That will help you to decide whether to partner withthem.

The one truth which you must look for in your research is a company that thebusiness opportunity works and they have products that are in demand. You shouldalso be sure if the products that you will get are valuable and are worth theprice that you have to pay. You should only invest in a multi-level marketingbusiness, if you know for sure what you are truly paying for. As you are goingto invest your hard earned money on it, and spending it wisely is really whatyou should do.

When you embark in the world of multi-level marketing business, you have toexpect that there will be times that you will have an overwhelming feeling oftiredness, which will make you want to give it all up. What you must do here isto focus on the big money you will make. If someone in the company can beearning millions every month, you can do it too. It is quite important that youhold on to those big pictures so that you will be encouraged in troublingtimes, when everything seems to be against all odds. It is quite expected thatanything in the world of network marketing is dictated by how you set your owndestiny. When you believe that you will be successful, don't just believe it,you have to make it happen.

It is important before you join a multi-level marketing business with theobjective of making big money out of it, you must learn how to Internetmarketing knowledge online and offline first. Learning is not just limited tousing word of mouth to invite your friends and family members to the businessopportunity. You have to find Internet marketing experts in the businesswho understand how it works, be ready to learn and be trained by them.Multi-level marketing is a career; you must be prepared to give it what ittakes to succeed.

Take your time in learning all that you can about it, and believe me it willpay off. There are a lot of experts that are equipped with all the necessaryinformation that you will need to get started, as well as tools that you willneed to set up your own online marketing campaign. This is precisely what youneed, to be able to reduce mistakes and make a way to your own success story.

If you are serious and really mean to do a multi-level marketing business, thenyou must be prepare to invest in the business. The investments will come invarious forms. You must invest your time, which is relatively easy because allyou have to do is to start working. Secondly is money to invest, you need to investmoney to make more money. Investment of capital is part of what makes everybusiness successful. At the end of the day all you need is patience, money toinvest, know-how, and of course ultimately your decision.

4. Be proud of what u do

Almost everyone who joined a home based business knows the feeling of being a little afraid, ashamed or embarrassed totell the friend or family about it. Who knows why it's so hard to tell thepeople who love you most about your new business but it really can be. The reasonfor these feelings cannot be known, but the question is, why are you afraid?Why is it hard to tell the ones you care for that you wish to change your life?You are not doing something wrong, so why being so hard to speak about it?

There is nothing in the world to be ashamed of them it comes to build a home based business. Wanting to work from home isnothing to be embarrassed of, actually is something to be proud of. While lotsof people chose to wake up every morning and go to a job they don't like, youchose to do something about it. You are doing something about your dreams andthe things you really want in life and this is nothing to be ashamed of.

Probably the reason why you are still ashamed to tell your close friends about your home based business is that even thenetwork marketing is something legitimate, there still is a huge stigmaattached to it. Many people don't believe that this is a real form of business.And they have a hard time to accept it because they don't believe this is areal form of business. But you have to be firm with your decision and knowwithin you that there is nothing wrong with network marketing. This type ofbusiness have been around for decades and will still be because it made lots opeople earn lot of money.

Even if network marketing has a baggage attached to it, you should not be ashamed of it. It's a great way to make moneyand you should not be embarrassed, but rather get involved into it.

No one will become successful and achieve greatness without the support and help from others. The power of people joiningtogether for a common purpose is greater than one trying alone. The ability tobuild a strong support system is a key factor in achieving success. Networkingis the process of meeting people and developing personal and professionalrelationships. It is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools around.Referrals generate more results than cold calls. Networking leads to more jobsthan want ads, and most people have a larger network than they believe they do.The old saying, "it's not what you know, but who you know" is morethan true, it is a mantra anyone wanting to be successful should imbed deepinto their consciousness.

You must also realize that the time to build your network is now. Do not wait till youneed something! The title to Harvey Mackay's networking book says it all,"Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty." You must establish a networkand continuously build, nurture and attend it. Networking is not selling, usingpeople, or badgering friends and associates about your business. Networking issharing information and resources for the mutual benefit of everyone in thenetwork. Proper networking does not make people feel uncomfortable, rather itis the development of goodwill, trust, service and contribution among thoselinked together by some common bond. You will provide information, tips, andresources far more than you will receive them. However, what you do receive inreturn will far outweigh everything else. It is that one big break that comes fromyour network that makes you realize how fortunate you are to have suchwonderful friends and acquaintances. We have not even mentioned the joy you canfeel by helping others succeed by sharing and assisting them reach their goalstoo. It is the exchange, the helping of each other, that makes networking sucha powerful strategy to achieve success

Five Keys To Networking

Networking is important, but how do you get started? How can you be an effective networker? There are too many aspects ofnetworking to cover in this short section, but it will address five keys tohelp you network your way to success. The keys to networking to focus on are:Develop Your People Skills; Create a System; Nurture Your Network; Give MoreThan You Receive; and It's Who Knows You. Start looking for ways to incorporatethese important lessons in your own networking. The benefits will beastounding.

Develop Your People Skills

Networking is all about people. If you want to network successfully and professionally, you must be professional anddevelop the skills to interact with people in all kinds of situations. Thesection in this book on appearance will assist you with getting off on theright foot. If you want people to perceive you as a professional, you mustportray yourself as a professional. This means all areas: attire, speech,mannerisms and actions. Your appearance will go a long ways toward a good firstimpression. Another people skill you can develop to ensure you make a lastingpositive first impression is your introduction of yourself.

You want to introduce yourself in a way that creates rapport with the other person. You want the introduction to generateinterest that will lead toward developing a relationship. You can draw peoplein or turn them off with the way you introduce yourself. It is worth the timeright now to think about how you can best introduce yourself to others tocreate positive lasting first impressions that will assist in developingrelationships. It should be a natural and fit the situation. Keep it short andexpress what you do rather than what you are. Use common words but be differentenough to distinguish yourself from others. Smile! Be warm and engaging.Enthusiasm attracts others to you. Then listen to their introduction and becomeinterested in them. Practice and evaluate how you introduce yourself to othersand you can create an introduction that generates interest and has a positivelasting effect.

Another important people skill that follows introductions is that of remembering names. This is an extremely importantpeople skill for the master networker. If you can remember names, your networkwill be more successful. Make a choice right now that you will take thenecessary steps to remember names. Stop telling yourself that you can neverremember names, faces yes, but names never. Tell yourself you can remembernames, and make a conscious effort to do so every time you meet someone new.Upon being introduced, tell the person it is nice to meet them and use theirname. Use their name again during the conversation and a last time as you part.Review business cards of people you met at the end of the day and associatetheir name, face, business so you will better remember them the next time youmeet. The more you work at this, the easier it will become.

While you are no longer going to have trouble remember names after committing to remembering them, others might. Be courteousand professional by reintroducing yourself to those you have met before. Tellthem your name and where you know each other from. This will relieve them fromthe embarrassing moment of trying to recall your name and how they know you.The successful networker takes the initiative and reintroduces him or herselfrather than waiting for someone to remember them.

The most important people skill you must develop is being gracious and courteous to everyone. Common courtesy and goodmanners go a long way. You will never develop a successful and enrichingnetwork without them. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy. Pleasant andcordial people attract others toward them. You never know who will end up beingimportant in your life, so treat everyone as if they are the most importantperson you know and you will never go wrong.

Create a System

If you do not have a system to organize and retrieve all the names, addresses, numbers, e-mail addresses and informationyou have collected from others, it will not do you much good. You mustestablish a system to organize and retrieve the information in your network.There are many ways to do this, from an address book, to a Rolodex system tothe new computer database systems.

It does not really matter how you do it, as long as you do. Devise a system that works for you. It should allow you to keepyour network organized as you build it, retrieve information from it, and workat keeping relationships growing. Accessibility is the key to an organizationalsystem. If you cannot find the information, you cannot refer to it, share it,or act upon it. Organize your network by creating a system that works for you.

Nurture Your Network

It will do you know good to collect names and cards in an organized system if you do not keep in touch with the people. Ifthe only time you contact people in your database is when you need something,you will be remembered as someone who only calls when you want something.

You should nurture your network by keeping in touch with people. You can send notes, e-mails, and letters. You can call orvisit. The key is to develop the habit of nurturing your network on aconsistent basis. Send thank you notes when someone does something for you,even if it was just passing on some information that they believed wouldbenefit you. Call people you have not touched base with in a while to see ifthere is anything you might be able to help them with or to just catch up onwhat they are doing so you can be on the lookout for things that might helpthem. When you do come across something that you believe might be of interestto someone in your network, forward it on with a little note. There are manylittle ways you can nurture your network. Make it a habit and you will reap thebenefits from what you sow.

Give More Than You Receive

Best selling author and motivational speaker Zig Zigler is fond of saying, "You can get anything in life you want ifyou will just help enough other people get what they want." Zig's adviceis better than anything else one could say about networking. If you give morethan you receive, you are bound to receive more than you could ever imagine.Networking is not about keeping score. It is about people helping one another.The more you help others, the more powerful your network will be, and apowerful network will do wonders for your career and personal life as well.

One of the easiest ways to give more than you receive is to become committed toward the success of those in your network. Ifyou truly want to see others succeed, and become committed to that end, youwill spot little things to pass on to assist them with their goals. Every oncein a while you will be able to pass something along that is quite huge inhelping someone else achieve their dreams. The stronger your commitment to helpothers succeed, the stronger your network will be. This network built oncommitment of helping others will be a powerful force in your own success. Youwill find that the more you give, the more opportunities you will receive. Donot build a network of acquaintances. Build a network of solid relationships.These relationships will be formed when you are committed to the success of everyonein your network.

It's Who Knows You

The old saying that it is not what you know but who you know is only partially correct. It is who knows you that reallymatters. You must create visibility for yourself. You want to be known. One ofthe easiest ways to become known and increase your network is to participate invarious organizations and committees.

Professional organizations abound, and joining can enhance your opportunities to expand your network. Clubs andorganizations provide excellent places to meet others and build an interestingand productive network.

Networking is powerful. Following these five simple keys will build a solid foundation toward a network that will bring youmore than you dreamed possible. You will find that you enjoy being there forothers, and be thankful when they are there for you. If you don't have thenetwork you want, start now. Remember Harvey Mackay's saying, "Dig YourWell before you’re Thirsty."Remember

in order to attract the right people, your seriousness must be very obvious. Here are 3 tips to keep in mind;

1. Make your word your bond.

A bond can be known as the glue or centerpiece that holds two or more things together. Legal contracts andagreements hold things together in our business world but there is an unwrittenrule that a man's words should do so likewise.

This means that anything you say regarding a business transaction, goal, or anything that is defining of your trust, can bebacked strongly by just your word. Only serious people can uphold there end ofthis rule.

2. Everything must be consistent.

Being consistent doesn't just mean being able to continue with a certain thing. It means that whatever you have discussed ordescribed to a new contact regarding yourself or your business, holds true withoutany exaggeration. In other words, there should be no holes in your story.

3. Show and prove.

As the old saying goes "Talk is cheap". When you are showing a new contact that you are a seriouscontender, you should be able to represent all you have verbally presented.When the time comes, you should be able to prove your position on manydifferent levels, even if you are just beginning in a certain field. If youcannot do this, and that is the case, you should never over extend yourabilities. Once you do, you have proven that you are definitely not serious anddon't really mean business

As a small business you need an elevator speech. Whether you actually call it an "elevator speech" a "30second introduction" or an "infomercial" is irrelevant. When youare asked "what do you do?" then your answer is your elevator speechwhether you like it or not.

This needs some thought and practice to avoid these most common mistakes. Beware! Succinctly getting your message over in away that grabs attention is not always as easy as "just telling otherswhat you do".

Mistake 1 - Talking about yourself

Eh? How are you going to tell people about what you do without talking about yourself? This is THE MOST common mistake asa result. It sounds like a list of what you do. For example "We dothis..." or "I am an internet guru" or "I am a professionalwith this, that and the other service"

The downside to this is twofold. Firstly, people don't really care about all your services, accolades and self-appointedtitles. They are trying to decide quickly if you are someone who may be able tohelp them, or are worth chatting to further as a networking partner.

Secondly - it is so common that your message will sound very similar to other people in the same niche. When that happens itis hard to grab attention.

The solution is to change your mindset and put yourself in the shoes of your ideal client and think about the CHALLENGESthey face and how you solve them. Use that as the lead into your elevatorspeech. In other words: "I work with (this type of client) struggling with(this type of problem).

Mistake 2 - Expecting others to "get" you

The most common example of this is assuming people will understand AND be interested when you label yourself or yourcompany - "We are tax attorneys" and leaving at that. Here's thething: people often either don't get what you do (perhaps they have never heardof it) or they assume they know what you do and it is different from thereality.

In either case it would be nice to think your listener would stop you and ask you to elaborate. They won't. They will be confused;embarrassed they don't understand or disinterested and move on.

Avoid labeling yourself - stick to the formula above and talk to THEIR challenges.

Mistake 3 - Irrelevant information

You must have heard how this sounds: "We have been in business 75 years and are based on main and 35th street, justopposite from the big new McDonald's that has opened there........"

This is a variation on talking about yourself but is specific and common enough to warrant it's own category.Again, unless this is of specific importance and relevance to the audience (youare a retail outlet or restaurant in which case location is important) then itis just noise to the audience.

The solution is simply to cut it out of your intro - it wastes time and adds little value. Again, stick to your targetaudience and what concerns them. That is the litmus test of all your intromaterial.

Mistake 4 - Trying to be cute

Tricky one this. There is a lot of advice out there recommending a tag line to keep you memorable. This can certainly workbut for every funny play on words there are countless groan inducing puns orworse, tag lines that really don't make sense.

It is the same advice as humor in a presentation. It can be great, but you really have to know what you are doingand so few people do it well. There is a very fine line between being witty andoffending. Also a clever play on words can confuse.

If you have a clever tag line that works, by all means stick with it. However it isn't necessary and don't waste timethinking one up. Just stick with your message that you help a certain audiencewith a specific problem of problems.

Mistake 5 - Not trying

This might be harsh when considering an elevator speech but, let’s faces it, sometimes people give up with theirelevator speech and sometimes they will tell you about it:

"Well, I'm really nervous/not good at this so I will just tell you about the company"

At other times it is basically being unprepared and it can be embarrassing to watch someone stumble through anelevator speech without a clear goal or plan. Don't let it happen to you!

You should ALWAYS be prepared to introduce yourself - there is no excuse for being caught off guard andcertainly not to give up on the whole thing and muddle through

Golden rules are the ones that actually apply. You should have them in mind and never forget them. Like stars to steerby, they're permanent markers to guide us and keep us moving in the rightdirection.

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Some memory loss is inevitable as we age. What you can do to protect yourself and your memory

A surprising number of things can cause memory loss, not just dementia.

So watch out for the following before jumping to all the wrong conclusions:

You're stressed out

Last year, more than 400,000 people in the UK said they were under so much stress at work, it was making them ill. Studies have shown that people under pressure who continuously have high levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their blood perform less well in memory tests. But it is now also thought that even severe short term stress can cause memory loss.

What to do about it

You won't know when your cortisol levels are up, but most of us know when we are stressed and under pressure, whether it's caused by work, family, relationships or money. Make time for yourself to do what helps you to relax - exercise, a relaxing bath, yoga, or doing some gardening.

Problems sleeping

Adults generally need at least six hours of sleep a night to function the next day. Lack of sleep and poor quality sleep are both associated with memory loss. Sleep is needed for effective memory storage and retrieval.

People with sleep apnoea, a disorder which causes them to stop breathing in their sleep ten times per hour, often suffer from memory loss and irritability the following day.

What to do about it

Sleep problems are usually caused by lifestyle, rather than a sleep disorder. Establish a sleep routine, and avoid food and drink (especially alcohol) which help keep you awake or interrupt your sleep pattern.

Sleep apnoea mostly occurs in men, people who are overweight and who snore heavily.

Lacking vitamins

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and for a healthy nervous system. People who lack vitamin B12 become anaemic and can suffer memory difficulties.

Most people with vitamin B12 deficiency are unable to absorb the vitamin from foods. Although it's more common in people over the age of 50, it can occur at any age.

What to do about it

Anaemia symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Nervous system symptoms include tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, memory loss and confusion.

The good news is that it can be treated by your GP who will prescribe vitamin B12 injections. Good sources of vitamin B12 are red and white meat, eggs, fish, milk and cheese. Vegans can take supplements.

Thyroid disorder

Memory difficulties combined with general fatigue and sluggishness are often accepted as a normal part of ageing. But they can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid caused by low levels of hormones from the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can occur at any age, but is usually more common in older adults and in women.

What to do about it

Look out for other symptoms such as cold hands and feet, constipation, pale, dry skin and unexplained weight gain. If these sound familiar, see your GP. They can perform a blood test, and prescribe hormone tablets if necessary.

Common drugs

Certain prescription drugs and even those bought at your local pharmacy can affect your memory. This usually happens if you take too many or because they may be interacting with other drugs. As you age and your metabolism slows down, medicines tend to stay in the system for longer and this can also have an effect.

Anticholinergics are a class of drugs which block the activity of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger which carries signals between nerve cells. These types of drugs are often used to treat bladder problems, sleeplessness, nausea and allergies and are found in many over the counter medicines.

What to do about it

Draw up a list of any drugs you are taking, including any purchased from your pharmacy and take it to your GP. They can decide if any drug related memory problems are occurring and alter your medication if necessary.

Booze

It's already known that alcoholics and long term heavy drinkers can suffer from memory loss and even permanent brain damage. But recent studies also suggest that binge drinking can cause short term memory loss as well.

What to do about it

It's not rocket science is it? From a health point of view, binge drinking is definitely not recommended. Apart from memory loss, there is also the risk of alcohol poisoning and choking on your own vomit whilst asleep. Stick to the recommended limits which are:

• Men should drink no more than 3 to 4 units of alcohol per day
• Women should drink no more than 2 to 3 units of alcohol per day

Mini-stroke

Transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke, happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, in most cases by a blood clot. Unlike strokes, mini-strokes can last from a few minutes up to 24 hours. Most are over within half an hour. Because of this, many people ignore the symptoms, especially if they disappear within the day. Others may not be aware they have had one, yet they can cause memory loss.

What to do about it

Symptoms of a stroke should be treated as a medical emergency, even if they disappear. Around one in five people who have mini-strokes go on to have a full blown stroke which can kill, or cause permanent disability. If you or anyone you know has 'a turn' involving memory loss, confusion, difficulty with or understanding speech, loss of balance, dizziness or trouble walking, then call 999.

?Speaker, 13 others impeached with borrowed mace? It's illegal ?G15

?An act of God ?Gov

MONSUR OLADUNJOYE, Lagos and ADEBIMPE AFUNKU, Abeokuta

Confusion reigned in Ogun State yesterday, as a faction of the State House of Assembly loyal to Governor Gbenga Daniel, sacked the Speaker Tunji Egbetokun and 13 others

Journalists and staff of the Assembly were barred from the complex, as the sack was carried out by a group of nine members sympathetic to the state government.

They were said to have arrived at the complex as early as 7 a.m. and gone into the chambers where they conducted proceedings with a mace said to have been borrowed from the Abeokuta North Local Government Area. The State House of Assembly is composed of 26 members, two of whom are currently on suspension.

Yemi Coker from Odeda state constituency was appointed as the new Speaker.

Coker, in his inaugural speech, said the action had become necessary because of the gross misconduct of Egbetokun.

He said the action was taken to save the government from being crippled by Egbetokun and his team.

They immediately approved the supplementary budget for the state and for Governor Daniel to approach the capital market for the N100 billion bond that has been rejected by majority of the legislators.

This was as the new speaker was prevented by the police from addressing the press at Iwe Iroyin House, venue of the proposed press briefing. State Police Commissioner Musa Daura, ordered the venue shut.

The Police boss also ordered that the legislative chamber be secured by his men, pending the settlement of the political impasse.

Meanwhile, Gov. Daniel has described the event as an act of God.

The embattled Egbetokun who pointed accusing fingers at Governor Daniel, however, told Daily Champion in an exclusive interview that "he (Daniel) is deceiving himself."

A member of the G-15 Kunle Adegboyega recalled that the faction broke into the chamber to sit for just 30 minutes during which Egbetokun was removed.

He said the minority took the hasty decision to scuttle the scheduled debate on the bond request which was to come up tomorrow (Wednesday).

Addressing newsmen yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State, Egbetokun and 13 others said: "They and their sponsor are all joking because even the least educated Nigerian or human being knows that they need two-thirds (16) members of the House to remove me from office as Speaker.

"My impeachment by the minority lawmakers is illegal and therefore null and void because the eight lawmakers did not constitute the required quorum by law to impeach me.

"Section 92 sub section 3 of the Constitution provides that to suspend a Speaker will require two-thirds of the members of the House.

"Out of 26 members of the House only eight were part of the impeachment which is less than what is required to remove a Speaker from office?,? he said.

He said majority of the lawmakers are on his side and therefore it is impossible for the minority to swallow the majority, lamenting that the lawmakers whose primary responsibility is to protect the law are the ones breaking it through illegal impeachment.

He told newsmen that the House remained adjourned and would be reconvened as soon as its recess is over, adding that the impeachment is a charade that must be disregarded.

The Speaker warned financial institutions against spending money from the supplementary budget until all issues are resolved.

Those who attended the briefing included the Deputy Speaker Remi Hassan and the Deputy Majority Leader, Mr. Micheal Fasinu, Giwa Nosiru, Leye Odunyo,Adekunle Adegboyega,Lukman Adire Adijat Adeleye and Akeem Salami.

Others were: Pelumi Olusola, Abiodun Akoroyo, Joshua Fatokin, Job Akinta, Wale Alausa and Dr Oshin.

However, Daniel yesterday said the development in the Assembly was an answer to the fervent prayers of indigenes, noting that it was particularly instructive that it happened during the holy month of Ramadan.

The governor, in his first official reaction, said it was God that intervened in the matter to ensure victory for the people of the state.

He said this while addressing hundreds of party supporters from Remo North Local Government area, who paid him a solidarity visit, at the Government House, Abeokuta, over the development.

He expressed gratitude to them for the visit, stressing that it was especially gratifying to him that they could mobilise so quickly without any prompting or invitation to come and show him their love and support.

He said: "I do not have much to say, because the situation is clear to everyone. As you are all aware, we are in the holy month of Ramadan. So, what has happened was a manifestation of the prayers of all of you, especially during this period. God who has answered our prayers will not leave us alone at this stage. But I want all of you to know that these people we are talking about are still our people. It was the devil that tried to divide us. God has won victory for us and the victory shall endure by His grace."

A Colombian who is just over 2ft tall has been officially recognised as the world's shortest living man by the Guinness World Records.

Edward Nino Hernandez, measuring 27in (70cm), is slightly taller than a piece of carry-on luggage and weighs 22lb (10kg).

"He hasn't grown since he was two years old," his mother Noemi Hernandez said.

The previous titleholder was China's He Pingping, who was 1.5in (4cm) taller than the Colombian and died on March 13.

In a recent interview, 24-year-old Nino said about his height: "I feel happy because I'm unique," but added "it bothers me that people are (always) touching me and picking me up".

According to Ms Hernandez, doctors could not explain why her son is so small. "They never gave us a diagnosis," she said.

Nino comes from Bosa, a mostly poor district of southern Bogota, and loves to dance, dreams of owning a car and wants to see the world.

The record holder also said he has an 18-year-old girlfriend called Fanny, who is less than 5ft tall.

But Nino does have his problems - he suffers from cataracts in both of his eyes that blur his vision and require surgery.

His mother said: "He doesn't see well. He isn't able to read".

Nino also had to repeat several years of school before dropping out.

The world's shortest man has earned some cash dancing at department stores and is now acting in a film in which he plays a pint-sized drug thug.

But the Guinness World Records believe Nino's reign is not likely to last long.

Khagendra Thapa Magar from Nepal, the world's shortest teenager, measures about 22in (56cm) and turns 18 on October 14.

REA Fugitives: Angela Oselukwe and Uduak Akpan Isreal

These two ladies, whose names are Angela Oselukwu and Uduak Akpan Isreal, are the missing link between the N5 billion Naira graft and the successful identification of several fronts that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole,used in receiving kickbacks from a massive theft of public funds.

According to EFCC officials, Angela and Uduak opened bank accounts at the United Bank For Africa (UBA) into which deposits were made by a member of the house, Godwin Ndudi Elumelu and Senator Nicholas Ugbane. Others making deposits into those accounts include Mohammed Jibo, Dr Abdullahi Aliyu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, the MD of Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Engineer Samuel Ibi Gekpe, and several other unscrupulous REA officials.

Angela and Uduak, who are in their thirties, were the major signatories to the several companies that were used in stealing N3 billion from the REA.

The two ladies maintained offices in the upscale Maitama area of Abuja. Some of the companies belonged to siblings of Speaker Bankole and his father. The companies linked to Bankole, his father, brother and cousin are: Vulysteke Metallic Construction Ltd, Parthenon Acropolis Nig. Ltd, Complete Trade Nig. Ltd, Zobra Global Services Ltd and F-Plus Concept Ltd.

These companies were paid for services they didn't render with the help of the two amazons of graft, who were spirited out of Nigeria as soon as investigations began regarding the 2009 scam.

Written by Kunle Oderemi, Kunle Awosiyan and Olayinka Olukoya Monday, 06 September 2010

SEVERAL persons were feared dead and about 20 vehicles burnt on Sunday, when a tanker went up in flames in Ibafo in Ogun State.

The cause of the fire could not be immediately ascertained, but some witnesses claimed that the tanker crashed and went up in flames.

Traffic to Ibadan and Lagos on the ever-busy expressway was still at a standstill at 9 p.m.

There was pandemonium as motorists, commuters and residents of the community scampered for safety.

All the known bush paths that led to the road were blocked as motorists meandered to find escape routes.

The inferno raged at the scene for about five hours after the tragedy, despite frantic efforts by a team of rescuers comprising law enforcement agents, to curtail the fire and clear the way for people to resume their journey.

An eyewitness claimed to have counted at least five vehicles that were razed, but he could not confirm if they were mainly commercial ones.

Recently, no fewer than 40 persons died in a similar tragedy at the Lagos end of the road.When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Olumuyiwa Adejobi and the Unit Commander Mowe/Ibafo unit of the state Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), Commandant Gbenga Aderibigbe, confirmed the development.

Adejobi said that the police, at the time of filing this report, could not ascertain the number of causalities involved in the accident, while Aderibigbe added that frantic efforts were being made to quench the fire and restore normalcy on the highway.

The PPRO said, “I have been informed about the accident involving three artriculated lorries at Kara Area of Mowe/Ibafo on the Lagos –Ibadan Expressway on Sunday evening.

“The Divisional Police Officer in the area had briefed me but could not ascertain the number of casualties involved in the accident. All that he was able to tell me was that one of the trailers traveling to Ibadan from Lagos lost control and veered off the road to the other section of the highway.”

Residents of Ilepa a community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria, yesterday took to the streets to protest against the demolition of their properties.

The residents, numbering over 10,000, with placards marched from the main entrance of the town to the palace of the traditional ruler, Oba Fatai Oladipupo, the Baale and other community leaders.

P.M.NEWS learned that the people are protesting against the proposed demolision of their properties by the management of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos.

Investigations revealed that the management of LUTH are banking on the fact that a portion of the property was given to them by the President Obasanjo administration for the purpose of building an annex of the hospital

P.M.NEWS gathered that the residents decided to protest when an official of LUTH gave them a verbal ultimatum of 100 days to vacate the property.

Speaking on behalf of the residents, Elder Peter Idowu, the chaiman, Ifesowapo Community Development Association, said that though the management of the hospital has annexed some portion of the property and the ultimatum is a calculated attempt by a group of people to convert the property for personal use, “and we will not watch and allow these people destroy a town made up of over 13 communities including Ilepa, Onhale and others, where do they want us to go? We sense a foul play by OBJ and others.”

Earlier, the Oba of the town advised the residents to maintain peace with a promise to speak with those in authority to assist in resolving the issue.

Also, counsel to the community, Barrister Gbolahan Agoro, said that the issue of the 100-day ultimatum is null and void and of no basis and promised to fight on.



http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2010/09/02/ifo-residents-protest-against-obasanjo/

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A Brazilian referee is on the run after fatally stabbing a player during a match in Barriera, northeast Brazil on Sunday.

According to Marca, local referee Gregorio Edio Francisco Chaves, 26, attacked Jose Ramos da Silva during a dispute over a foul. Police reports say Chaves stabbed da Silva in the chest before turning on the 28-year-old's brother, knifing him in the back multiple times..

Despite being treated by doctors, da Silva died at the scene. His brother, Francisco Chagas da Silva is currently recovering from his injuries.

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The suspects are:

1.Adeyanju Bodunde

2.George Mark

3.Hans George Christ

4. Heinrich J. Stockhausen

5.Julius Berger Nigeria Plc

6. Bilfinger Berger GMBH.

7.Ibrahim Aliyu

8. AVM Abdullahi Dominic Bello

9. Mohammed Gidado Bakare

10.Urban Shelter Limited

11.Intercellular Nigeria Limited

12.Sherwood Petroleum Limited

13. Tri-Star Investment Limited

14.Maizube Holdings Limited

15. TSKJ Nigeria Limited-(a) Technip S.A.; (b)Snamprogetti Netherlands B.V. (c) Kellogg Brown and Root Inc(d) Japan Gasoline Corporation of Japan.

SLUG: Panic as AGF drags ex-Head of State’s firm, Obasanjo’s PA, ex-Permanent Secretary, 12 others to court over $180m Halliburton scandal

The anti-corruption crusade in Nigeria reached a feverish pitch on Friday when its Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Adoke(SAN) filed charges against Maizube Holdings Limited, a company owned by a former Head of State, Gen. Abdulasalami Abubakar and 14 others.

The others include Adeyanju Bodunde, who was a former Personal Assistant to ex- President Olusegun Obasanjo; a former Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Aliyu; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; and Bilfinger Berger GMBH.

Others are AVM Abdullahi Dominic Bello; Mohammed Gidado Bakare; Urban Shelter Limited; Intercellular Nigeria Limited; Sherwood Petroleum Limited; Tri-Star Investment Limited; TSKJ Nigeria Limited-(a) Technip S.A.; (b)Snamprogetti Netherlands B.V. (c) Kellog Brown and Root Inc(d) Japan Gasoline Corporation of Japan.

The suspects will be tried at both the Federal High Court Abuja and in the High Court of Justice of the Federal Capital Territory .

Although the suspect central to the bribery scandal(Jeffrey Tesler) is at large, the Federal Government is determined to prosecute all those implicated.

The prosecutors of the suspects are Mr. J.B. Daudu(SAN), who recently emerged as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA); E. C. Ukala(SAN); and G.O. Obla FCI Arb

Allegations against some of the suspects are as follows:

• That you, George Mark, Jeffrey Tesler(now at large), Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH, sometimes between 2002 and 2003 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired among yourselves to make several cash payments in the sum of US$1million(five times) totaling in equivalent the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16 of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
• That George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH and Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired among yourselves to do an illegal act, to wit: failing to report several cash payments totaling in equivalent the sum of $5million by one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) ; thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16 and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995.
• That all the six suspects sometimes between 2002 and 2003 did make several payments totaling in equivalent $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde and thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 15(d) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
• That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 did accept several cash payments in the sum of $5milion($1m in five tranches) from George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH and thereby committed an offence contrary to 1 and 15(d) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
• That you George Mark, Jefferey Tesler(now at large), Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did transfer several sums of money received from one Jeffrey Tesler in the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde in Nigeria, to wit did conceal and transfer to a nominee knowing that it constitutes proceeds of a criminal conduct and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 16 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(Establishment) Act 2002.
• That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH conspired among yourselves to do an illegal act to wit: corruptly procuring and transferring cash payments amounting to $5million on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler (now at large), to one Adeyanju Bodunde, Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
• That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did for and on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler (now at large) did corruptly procure and transfer $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde, Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98A of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
• That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 while being a public official and in your capacity as the Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria corruptly asked for and received several cash payments in the sum of $5million from one George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH for and on behalf of one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98B of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
• That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 while being a public official and in your capacity as the Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria accept several cash amounting to $5million from one George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH for and on behalf of one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) , being a reward beyond your proper pay and emoluments, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98B of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
• That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did make for yourselves and on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler(now at large) several cash payments in the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde, personal Assistant to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the purpose of financing the activities of a political party in Nigeria thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 38(2) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act CAP. C20 LFN 2004..

Vice President Namadi Sambo has faulted the position of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on the recent decision of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to throw open its ticket for next year’s presidential election, noting that the position was informed by selfish interest.

Sambo, in a short interactive session with media executives at his Akinola Aguda residence in Abuja Sunday, said that rather than any claim to fighting for the interest of the North, the duo were only opposed to the arrangement because it has failed to hand the PDP ticket (and by implication, the 2011 presidency) on a platter. “They are opposing it because they are interested parties,” the VP said, pointing out that the two aspirants would have been taken more seriously if they were not going to be direct beneficiaries of a reverse in policy on the issue.

Responding to a question on the call for him to step down as VP in order to preserve the zoning arrangement that would ensure the presidency returned to the North in 2011, Sambo said: “If the people that are talking do not have personal interest, then it will be a different matter. But when you see people that have interest, and they are the same people talking, then it becomes a kind of a problem”.

The VP further restated: “This issue is a purely a matter of PDP and I can tell you to go and investigate and find out the true position of the North. For the majority of the North or the majority of Nigerians, their concern is who can save the present situation and let Nigerians live above poverty level. Their concern is about who can deliver so that our society will change to a society we can all be proud of and so that our socio- economic status will improve. I think that is the major concern of Nigerians.

We are today at 50, our concern is not whether North or South, our concern is who can deliver Nigeria for us?
On this count, he said Nigerians should rest assured that Jonathan is delivering and would deliver even more. “We are delivering Nigeria and I believe we are in the position to deliver the promise that Nigerians want” he said.

The VP was however, not categorical on if or when his principal, President Goodluck Jonathan, would declare his intention to run for the 2011 presidential election. He said it would be “very soon”, adding: “there is no specific date yet but it will be very soon”.
Pushed further, the VP said it would definitely be after the Ramadan. “You know the Ramadan period is a Holy month and you know it is not the best period to go into all those kinds of activities. You also know that Ima Niboro (Jonathan’s spokesman) has made a press statement on that. So, already there is a statement from the presidency.

Sambo also tackled a few other issues bordering on the contentious zoning issue and the performance of the Jonathan administration. Excepts:
You are a Northerner, your zone has taken a decision that the power must remain in the North come 2011, how comfortable are you with the decision?
Am I not part of the power? I think I am from the North and, as the Vice-President, I have confidence that whatever a President from the North will do, I am in the best position to do it for the North. And today we are 50 years old, the party has made it clear that the issue of its candidature will be in line with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and zoning is still an existing factor, it is part of the PDP constitution. We have gone up, we are just going to celebrate our 50th anniversary. And at the age of 50, we expect any state to have grown. This country (Nigeria ) has come a long way and therefore, the issues that have to do with our development, of effecting programmes of government that will rejuvenate the country and create a better standard of living for Nigerians are what we are looking for.

I remember in the 1960s, when we were still children, these issues that have to do with religion, zoning and what have you were part of the issues that do not really exist. So, I am from the North, I am part of the power and everything that is needed to do for the North is being done. Look at what has been happening of recent. The major programmes that are being implemented for this part of the country, that is the Northern part, these are evidence to show that we have a President that is patriotic, a President that does not have anything that is religious or sectional as part of his disposition or administration.

Is that why you prefer the back seat to the front seat?
That is why we have chauffeur- driven car. If you are chauffeur-driven, which will you prefer, will you sit in the front or at the back?
Your Excellency, how are you carrying the PDP Governors along, we learnt some of them are not backing the possibility of a Jonathan-Sambo ticket?
The Northern Governors, and in fact all the Governors of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, are being carried along and we have good relationship, we are moving this country together. And the position of all the sections or the zones of this country has been made very clear. The governors of the South-South, the South-West, have made their statements, the governors from the Northern states have made their statement, members of the Nigerian Governors Forum have also made their statement. These statements are all in line with our position. So we are all together.

Sir, it was reported that there was a plan to stop you from contesting in the 2011 elections even though the government had come out to deny it, there were reports on Sunday that governors are still demanding Vice-Presidential slot, which is which?
The position of the Government is the right thing.

With some of the Governors indicating interest in the Vice-presidency, is it not an indication that your position is threatened?
You see when you talk of about threats in terms of political issues, you know there are even different parties that want to take over the government, there are different parties, we have the ANPP, CPC, all these. You know politics is a question of continuous challenges, it is like life and anybody can sit down and create their stories too. That is politics.

How comfortable are you with the situation in Kaduna where they said you are losing grip?
I have not heard of that really. And in practice, I have not seen anything like that. In fact, just before you came in I received a group of political friends from Kaduna and they said the government is doing everything in line with the programmes we have put in place together in Kaduna and all these politicians are from Kaduna . We are even always getting stronger and strengthening all issues with politics in Kaduna State . It is just the same thing like I said. It is the same story; people say a lot of things that may not be right.

One thing in politics, is that people make a lot of speculations and say a lot of things that may not be right. It is like one time, I was attending a conference here and Andrew Young was delivering his speech and part of the statement he made was that you have to feed the press with information, if you don’t feed them, they will create their food. If you have not been giving them information, the likelihood is that somebody will just sit down and start creating his own information because you have to write news. So, really as far as I know, Kaduna is still a strong PDP State and we are moving on as one family.

How busy are you your Excellency? Are you fully engaged? Or just another spare tyre, considering that deputies are always neglected?
Oh! Fully. You can even see the proof (pointing to a stack of files he had to treat before dinner with the president that evening). I am here with so many documents to address and I am fully, fully engaged. As you know, you must have seen that we are handling a lot of important national matters like power, the issue of infrastructure, and others. The analysis that we have made is that we must address all the issues that have been pending and those that will enhance the development of the country.

The first major issue is power, if we can give Nigerians power, 50 percent of our socio-economic problems will be solved and this as you know, we are addressing with all seriousness. The issue of access to finance, you must have noticed that just recently, I signed the N500billion intervention funds for industries and power sector, and we are doing everything to ensure that we make funds accessible to people so that the private sector will grow, so that there won’t be any problem. When we complete the projects we have on power, the other sectors that will evacuate the power will be active. There are other funds that will come very soon. We have the textile funds. Arrangements have gone very far too also to support the automobile sector and all other sectors. The SMEs and there are other measures to ensure that the issue of housing is addressed so that every Nigerian will be able to access the facilities and own a house in this country.

What do you make of INEC as it is now?
We are confident that the members of the present INEC set up are up to the task. They have made certain proposals to meet their targets. Since their requests (the men, resources )have been met, they are now implementing their plans. Of course, the issues are always that they must be given leverage in achieving certain objectives. As far as we are concerned, we are confident that INEC will meet their targets.

In the event that they have any problem, I am confident that the chairman will come out and tell Nigerians the true position and Nigerians will come out and agree. That is the true position as far as I am concerned. He (Jega) is working as scheduled and he will deliver according to the programmes

How will you and the President cope since PDP has retained its zoning formula?
We have agreed that zoning is part and parcel of PDP, it has not removed zoning. But PDP has said that as far as its candidate is concerned, it respects the Federal Constitution. And in all previous elections of the PDP, despite the fact that there is zoning, all Nigerians that were interested participated in such elections (presidential). Just look at the last election, there were fifteen (15) candidates from the South, and about twelve (12) or so from the North. Despite the fact that there was zoning in PDP, still the Constitution is still the prime factor that is considered in the candidature for PDP. Any interested candidate from any part of the country, as a Nigerian, has the right to contest if he wishes just like it has been proved in other PDP’s presidential election (primaries).

By STEVE NWOSU