Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has voiced her concerns about the influence Elon Musk holds over the ongoing government funding crisis on Capitol Hill.

In a post on X, Clinton accused the Republican Party of being guided by Musk, the world’s richest man, stating, “The Republican Party, taking orders from the world’s richest man, is on course to shut down the government over the holidays.

Stopping paychecks for our troops and nutrition benefits for low-income families just in time for Christmas.”

This sharp criticism came after House Democrats labelled some Republicans as ‘Extreme MAGA’ for their hardline stance in budget negotiations, which could potentially leave essential services unfunded.

The possibility of a government shutdown, set to take effect at midnight on Saturday, would mean thousands of federal employees, including military personnel, might not receive paychecks.

Additionally, millions of vulnerable families relying on programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) could face disruptions in their benefits just before the holidays.

Fox News reported that the core issue is a dispute over the spending deal initially brokered by House Speaker Mike Johnson and the Democrats.

Musk, known for his outspoken views on politics and social issues, rejected the original agreement, threatening to support primary challengers against any Republican who voted in favour of it.

In response, House Republicans proposed a revised spending package.

Justice Aluko of the Federal High Court has sentenced a man identified as Roomy to 12 months imprisonment or a fine of ₦300,000 for possession of tramadol. The sentencing followed his guilty plea to charges filed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Roomy was arrested on November 15, 2024, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, during a routine passenger screening for an Ethiopian Airlines flight. He was en route to Turkey via Addis Ababa when the contraband was discovered.

The NDLEA prosecutor, Abu Ibrahim, highlighted that Roomy’s actions violated Section 11(b) of the NDLEA Act, CAP N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Despite urging for a stricter penalty, Roomy’s lawyer, Augustine Nwagu, pleaded for leniency, noting his client’s remorse and first-time offender status.

Justice Aluko also ordered the forfeiture of Roomy’s passport to the Nigerian Immigration Service and the destruction of the seized drugs if no appeal is filed.

The court’s decision underscores the balance between upholding the law and considering mitigating circumstances.

The Nigerian government is making strategic moves to improve the country’s global reputation and attract more foreign investment by partnering with Bloomberg.

This initiative, which is set to last for two years, will be led by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).

The Federal Ministry of Finance shared the news on Thursday through a statement on its official X account.

This effort aims to address long-standing perceptions of Nigeria that have deterred potential investors.

With Bloomberg’s involvement, the government hopes to reshape the country’s narrative on the international stage and highlight its economic opportunities.

Bloomberg, a globally respected media organization, has pledged to utilize its extensive media network to showcase Nigeria’s strengths and potential.

Nicole Keefe, Bloomberg’s Global Director, met with the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and underscored the company’s dedication to this mission.

Keefe explained that the collaboration will focus on promoting Nigeria’s progress and achievements, counteracting outdated or negative stereotypes.

By presenting accurate, up-to-date information, the partnership intends to build investor confidence and reveal opportunities that many may have overlooked due to misinformed narratives.

Minister of Finance Wale Edun emphasized that this collaboration is part of the government’s broader strategy to create a more investor-friendly environment.

With ongoing economic reforms, infrastructure development, and policies geared toward transparency, Nigeria is positioning itself as a reliable and promising destination for global investments.