Lagos Celebrates Supreme Court Verdict Over Lottery Regulation Rights
State government hails ruling as triumph for federalism, urges illegal operators to regularize with LSLGA
The Lagos State Government has welcomed a landmark Supreme Court ruling that invalidates the National Lottery Act, affirming states’ constitutional authority to regulate gaming activities within their territories.
In a detailed statement, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described the Supreme Court’s decision in Suit No. SC/1/2008 as “a historic victory for the rule of law, federalism, and the constitutional rights of states.”
“The Supreme Court’s decision is a significant affirmation that the regulation of lotteries and gaming is a residual matter, falling squarely within the purview of State Governments,” Omotoso stated, emphasizing the ruling’s importance for state autonomy.
The Commissioner connected the victory to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s longstanding advocacy for true federalism, calling the judgment “a fitting tribute to his visionary and progressive leadership.” He also praised former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, for his role in pursuing the legal challenge, and current Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his commitment to upholding state rights.
Following the ruling, the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) has been reaffirmed as the sole regulatory body for gaming activities in Lagos State. The state government has issued a clear warning to unauthorized operators, directing them to “immediately approach the LSLGA for regularisation or face prosecution.”
“Lagos remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment for licensed operators,” Omotoso assured, while emphasizing the government’s determination to protect residents from unregulated gaming activities. He added that the state would continue working to ensure the gaming sector contributes to Lagos’s economic growth and residents’ prosperity.
The ruling represents a watershed in Nigeria’s gaming industry regulation, establishing a clear precedent for state-level oversight of lottery and gaming operations.
