Lagos Gov’t Warns Public About 26 Illegal Gaming Operators
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) has issued a public alert regarding the activities of 26 gaming operators conducting business in Lagos State without the necessary licenses. These operators are in violation of Section 33(3) of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Law 2021, which mandates that any gaming activity must be licensed by the LSLGA. The organizations involved are:
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The LSLGA derives its regulatory powers from Section 4 (7) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). This authority has been affirmed by multiple judicial decisions, including Edet v Chagoon (2008) and Attorney-General, Plateau State v Goyol (2007). The courts have established that pools betting and casino gaming fall within the residual legislative powers of the state, making state regulations applicable.
In Suit No. SC/27/2009, Attorney General of Lagos State v. National Sports Lotteries Ltd & Anor, the Supreme Court ruled that lottery operations in Lagos must comply with the state’s lotteries law, reinforcing the state’s jurisdiction over such matters.
Furthermore, a Federal High Court judgment in Give ‘N’ Take Limited vs Oyo State Gaming Board and AG of Oyo State (2020) supported the autonomy of state gaming laws over federal provisions, emphasizing that operators must obtain state licenses to operate legally.
The LSLGA takes a firm stance against unlicensed gaming operations and is committed to enforcing the laws of Lagos State rigorously. Both onshore and offshore operators are advised to obtain the proper licenses from the Lagos State government to avoid prosecution under Nigerian and international laws.
The public is strongly advised to avoid using the platforms of the listed illegal operators, as their activities contravene the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Law 2021 and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999.
The LSLGA remains dedicated to regulating and promoting a fair and lawful gaming industry in Lagos State, ensuring the protection of all stakeholders’ interests.
