The Lagos State Government has hailed the Supreme Court’s ruling in the case between the Attorney-General of Lagos State and the Attorney-General of the Federation. The ruling, which nullified the National Lottery Act, effectively hands control over lotteries and gaming to state governments, affirming their constitutional right to regulate activities within their borders. But before we get too excited about this ‘historic victory,’ let’s take a closer look at what it actually means and whether anything will really change.
The State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, was quick to call the decision a “historic victory” for the rule of law, federalism, and the 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 said, sounding a bit too pleased with a ruling that should have been a given from the start. Federalism in Nigeria is a low budget version. The question is, does this ruling really empower states, or is it just another paper thing?
Omotoso didn’t stop there. He went on to praise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling the ruling a “vindication” of Tinubu’s long-held belief in true federalism. The former governor, now president, has long championed decentralization, and according to Omotoso, this ruling is proof that his efforts are “coming to life.” But if we’re honest, we’ve heard this story before. Federalism has been the watchword for decades, yet tangible change has always seemed just out of reach.
The praises continued for former Lagos governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, who apparently followed in Tinubu’s footsteps, courageously bringing this matter to court. Omotoso credited Fashola’s “tenacious belief” for bringing this issue to a close, as if there wasn’t already enough on the plate of Lagos’ legal team to handle. And of course, there’s a nod to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has been lauded for his “steadfast leadership” and commitment to upholding the rule of law. Okay okay, the question in my mind is, after all the legal battles, will this ruling actually change how Lagos regulates its lottery and gaming activities, or will it be business as usual?
The icing on the cake is the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) is now the undisputed king of lotteries in Lagos, at least on paper. According to the state government, the LSLGA will continue to regulate gaming in the state, ensuring activities are conducted responsibly and transparently.
The Lagos government is also sending a clear message to illegal and unlicensed lottery operators: shape up or face prosecution. In a statement, Omotoso warned that all those operating outside the law must “immediately approach the LSLGA for regularisation or face prosecution.” Sure, there’s a business-friendly environment for licensed operators, but is Lagos really prepared to crack down on the illegal operators? History shows that the state is more likely to turn a blind eye when the right palms are greased. This is Nigeria, guysss (corruption lives here)!
