In a ruling that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s legal and governance spheres, the Supreme Court nullified the enforcement of the National Lottery Act across the 36 states of the federation, declaring that only state assemblies have the powers to legislate on lottery and gaming businesses. The court emphasized that the National Assembly (NASS) can only legislate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and cannot impose laws in states on matters outside the exclusive legislative list.
The judgment has raised questions about consistency in the apex court’s interpretation of legislative authority. Critics point out a seeming contradiction with previous rulings, such as those upholding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Act. Despite states having internal anti-corruption agencies, the EFCC Act is enforced nationwide, with the court affirming the NASS’s authority to legislate broadly in that context.
A political analyst, Dr. Peter Adebola, expressed concern over the apparent inconsistency. “This judgment complicates an already challenging understanding of legislative powers in Nigeria. If the NASS can create binding laws like the EFCC Act that operate in all states, why is the National Lottery Act treated differently? The judiciary owes the public a coherent explanation,” he remarked.
Many have called for a rescue of the judiciary from what they describe as a growing lack of clarity. Lawyers and governance experts argue that conflicting judgments erode public trust and create confusion for lawmakers, law enforcement agencies, and the general public.
“The judiciary must be a beacon of clarity,” said a senior advocate who requested anonymity. “If we cannot rely on the apex court to give consistent rulings, the legal system will become a playground of arbitrary interpretations.”
As states begin adjusting their laws to reflect the judgment, the ruling reignites the debate over the balance of power between federal and state governments, leaving stakeholders wondering if this is the beginning of further legal battles on legislative authority in Nigeria.
