Lagos State Government has applauded the ruling of the Supreme Court in Suit No. SC/1/2008 between the Attorney-General of Lagos State & Ors and the Attorney-General of the Federation & Ors, which nullified the National Lottery Act, reaffirming the constitutional authority of state governments to regulate lotteries and gaming activities within their jurisdiction.
 
This was as elder statesman, Edwin Clark, extolled Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun for her exemplary leadership as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The judgment, according to a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, is a historic victory for the rule of law, federalism and the constitutional rights of states.
 
He stated, “The apex 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. This judgment reinforces the principles of true federalism, empowering states to chart their path for effective regulation.
 
“The judgment is a vindication of the consistent belief of President Bola Tinubu regarding the nation’s quest for true federalism. It is gratifying to see that the restructuring battle he has led is coming to life during this administration. This judgment is a fitting tribute to his visionary and progressive leadership.”
 
Omotoso also saluted the belief of Tinubu’s successor in office as Lagos governor, Babatunde Fashola, who followed the traditional pathway Tinubu charted to test all contentious constitutional issues in court. He said Fashola’s courage to follow through with the suit brought the country to yet another dawn.
 
The commissioner added, “Also, kudos to the steadfast leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose commitment to upholding the rule of law and defending the rights of Lagosians has been pivotal in securing this outcome.”

This outcome would not have been possible without the vision and resolute backing of the governor whose commitment to integrity in governance has set a benchmark for true federalism.
 
“The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) remains the sole regulatory body for lotteries and gaming in the state. It will continue to ensure that gaming activities are conducted transparently, responsibly, and in alignment with international best practices.”
  
The state government urged all illegal and unlicensed lottery and gaming operators to immediately approach the LSLGA for regularisation or face prosecution.
It stated, “The government will foster a conducive environment for legitimate operators and safeguard residents from the adverse effect of unregulated gaming activities.
 
“Lagos remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment for licensed operators. It also remains committed to ensuring that the gaming sector contributes to the state’s economic growth and prosperity of its citizens.”

CLARK described Kekere-Ekun’s appointment as a transformative moment for Nigeria’s judiciary, celebrating her commitment to justice and integrity.
 
In an open letter dated November 24, 2024, the 97-year-old legal icon and former Minister of Information reflected on the CJN’s illustrious career, including her impactful tenure in the Court of Appeal, Kano.  He praised her decisive efforts to combat corruption and restore faith in the country’s legal system, which he said earned her the trust of Nigerians.
 
In his letter, Clark revisited the controversial ousting of former CJN Walter Onnoghen in 2019, calling it a dark chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history. He condemned the actions of former President Muhammadu Buhari and his Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, for undermining judicial independence, and criticised the inaction of the National Judicial Council (NJC) during the episode.
 
Despite the challenges, Clark expressed satisfaction that Onnoghen’s dignity has been restored. He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue her reform efforts, emphasising the importance of a credible judiciary to stability and progress. 
 
Clark also called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the rule of law prevailed and that no individual enjoyed impunity, regardless of status. While praying for the CJN, applauding her courage and foresight in addressing the judiciary’s challenges, he reaffirmed his belief in her ability to lead the judiciary towards a brighter and more accountable future.