A coalition of civil society organizations, legal activists, and concerned citizens has issued a strong-worded call to the National Assembly—particularly the Senate—demanding an immediate halt to what they described as a “voyage of legislative rascality, recklessness, provocation, and lawlessness” over the proposed Central Gaming Bill.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the coalition condemned the National Assembly's attempt to reintroduce federal legislation on lottery and gaming—a matter already resolved by the Supreme Court. The group accused lawmakers of trampling on the Constitution and disobeying binding judicial authority.
Supreme Court Already Settled the Matter
The controversy stems from the November 22, 2024, ruling of the Supreme Court, which unequivocally declared the National Lottery Act 2005 unconstitutional. In a unanimous verdict, the apex court ruled that the National Assembly lacks the power to legislate on lotteries and gaming activities outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as these matters do not fall within the Exclusive or Concurrent Legislative Lists in the Nigerian Constitution.
The court granted multiple orders, including a perpetual injunction restraining federal authorities from implementing or enforcing any aspect of the now-nullified law in states outside Abuja.
"A Direct Assault on the Constitution"
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, a spokesperson stated:
> “This move by the National Assembly, particularly the attempt by the Senate to consider the Central Gaming Bill already passed by the House of Representatives, is an affront to the Constitution, a violation of the Supreme Court judgment, and a threat to national peace and democratic governance.”
The coalition insisted that the Supreme Court's judgment is final and binding under Sections 6(6)(b), 235, and 287 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and therefore cannot be circumvented or invalidated by legislative action.
> “Unless and until the Constitution is amended to include lottery, gaming, or gambling in the Exclusive or Concurrent Lists, the National Assembly cannot legislate on these matters for the states. To attempt otherwise is legislative overreach, and we say: Enough is enough,” the statement added.
Demands to the Senate and House of Representatives
The coalition issued two primary demands:
1. An immediate end to the consideration of the Central Gaming Bill by the Senate.
2. A public apology from the House of Representatives to the Nigerian people for what the coalition described as "an assault on legislative integrity, honour, and national security."
> “The Senate now has a golden opportunity to withdraw from this illegal process. Failure to do so will be seen as complicity in undermining the authority of the judiciary and the sanctity of the Constitution,” the spokesperson warned.
Wider Implications for Federalism and Rule of Law
Legal experts present at the briefing emphasized that the ongoing legislative efforts not only violate constitutional boundaries but also pose a serious risk to the federal structure of Nigeria.
> “This is not just about lottery. This is about setting a dangerous precedent where lawmakers can ignore constitutional limits and override the judiciary. If this is allowed to stand, no state will be safe from federal overreach,” said one constitutional lawyer in attendance.
The press conference concluded with a call on all democratic stakeholders—including the judiciary, state governments, the media, and the Nigerian public—to remain vigilant and resist any attempt to erode constitutional governance and judicial authority in the country.
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