Supreme Court of Nigeria Rules Lottery Not Within Exclusive Legislative List
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has declared that lottery is not within the Exclusive Legislative List of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
In a well-considered ruling in the case of Attorney General of Lagos State v. National Sports Lottery LTD and NSL Lottery Management Co. LTD, the apex court held: “This suit is not for the determination of matters within the exclusive legislative list of the National Assembly of Nigeria…”.
The judgment was delivered on March 31, 2023, by a five-man panel of Justices of the Supreme Court led by Hon. Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba. The certified true copy (CTC) of the judgment was, however, obtained at the weekend.
Read Also: GBT Targets 200 Billion/- in Sports Betting Revenue in Tanzania
LEADERSHIP reports that the ruling has far-reaching implications for the regulation of lottery and gaming activities within Lagos State and affirming the authority of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority. Supreme Court Nigeria Lottery
The case and issues for determination at the trial court were whether the National Sports Lottery Limited can lawfully and validly carry on, conduct and or operate any form of lottery business within the territory of Lagos State by whatever means or mode without first obtaining a duly issued licence from the Executive Governor of Lagos State in accordance with the provisions of the Lagos State Lotteries Law 2004.
The matter went on appeal after the preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the Lagos State High Court was overruled and dismissed.
Source: Leadership NG
