The Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, has issued a stern warning to illegal and unlicensed lottery and gaming operators in the state, instructing them to regularize their operations or face severe penalties.
This directive comes in the wake of a landmark Supreme Court ruling that annulled the National Lottery Act, granting state governments the constitutional authority to regulate gaming activities within their jurisdictions.
Ajulo made the announcement on Monday in Akure, after praising the Supreme Court’s decision, which he described as a major victory for constitutionalism, federalism, and the rule of law.
“The Supreme Court ruling is a monumental affirmation that regulating lotteries and gaming is a matter under the residual powers of state governments. This strengthens the authority of Ondo State to oversee and manage gaming activities,” Ajulo stated.
The ruling, delivered in Suit No. SC/1/2008 between the Attorney General of Lagos State and others against the Attorney General of the Federation, has profound implications for the management of gaming and lottery businesses across Nigeria.
Ajulo emphasized that the judgment affirms Ondo State’s right to regulate the gaming sector in its territory, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its citizens. “This decision validates our belief in the capacity of the state to govern its resources effectively,” he added.
The Attorney General pointed out that the Supreme Court’s ruling reaffirms the principle of federalism in Nigeria, empowering state governments to take charge of matters that were previously under federal control.
Ajulo also commended Ondo State’s Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his ongoing commitment to maintaining the rule of law. He credited the Governor for the state’s positive outcomes in recent legal and governance issues, noting that his leadership has been critical in ensuring that the state follows constitutional processes.
“This ruling would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Governor Aiyedatiwa, whose leadership has been crucial in our push for effective governance in Ondo State,” Ajulo stated.
Following the ruling, Ajulo reassured citizens that the Ondo State government is fully committed to creating a regulated and transparent environment for all gaming and lottery activities. The goal is to ensure that all gaming businesses operate within legal frameworks that promote accountability and protect citizens.
“With this ruling, Ondo State’s regulatory framework for lotteries will be strengthened. The state will now take a more active role in ensuring that all gaming activities are transparent, accountable, and compliant with the law,” Ajulo remarked.
The Attorney General also announced that the Ondo State Lotteries Regulatory Commission would be reviewed and restructured to align with the recent Supreme Court decision. This is expected to streamline the regulatory processes and improve enforcement against illegal gaming operators in the state.
Ajulo’s directive has raised expectations across the state that a crackdown on illegal gaming will follow swiftly. Lottery operators and gaming agents in Ondo State have been urged to regularize their activities immediately or risk facing legal consequences, including fines and possible closure of their businesses.
Ajulo’s call to action is clear: “All operators must ensure they are properly licensed and compliant with the new regulations. Failure to do so will result in legal action and penalties.”
This move is expected to have a significant impact on the gaming industry in Ondo State, which has seen a rise in unregulated activities in recent years. The state government is committed to stamping out illegal operations and ensuring that the gaming sector contributes positively to the state’s economy while safeguarding citizens’ interests.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, in his support for the Attorney General’s efforts, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to good governance and legal compliance. He called on all stakeholders in the gaming industry to work together to build a more transparent and accountable system.
“We will work closely with all operators to ensure that they meet the necessary standards and that all activities are carried out within the boundaries of the law,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated.
