Lagos State moves to hold Nigeria’s National Assembly in contempt over Central Gaming Bill dispute

The Lagos State Government has filed a motion before the Supreme Court of Nigeria seeking permission to initiate contempt proceedings against the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of defying a 2024 Supreme Court ruling on gaming regulation.

Attorney-General Bode Olanipekun (SAN) submitted the application, requesting authorisation to issue Form 48 — the official contempt notice under Nigerian law. The motion argues that by advancing the Central Gaming Bill, which seeks to centralise lottery and betting regulation, the National Assembly has breached the Supreme Court’s 2024 judgment confirming that gaming remains under state jurisdiction.

According to the filing, several clauses of the new Bill — including Clauses 7 and 21-64 — directly replicate provisions of the repealed National Lottery Act, while Clause 62 allegedly attempts to revive the Act’s effects, effectively disregarding the court’s decision.

Lagos contends that the legislature’s actions amount to “deliberate contempt” and a threat to Nigeria’s federal balance, arguing that states retain exclusive powers over lotteries and gaming operations within their territories.

For the gambling industry and investors, the case is significant: it may redefine regulatory authority between state and federal governments, influence operator licensing, and shape the legal environment for the growing Nigerian betting market.