Supreme Court abolishes National Lottery Act

The Supreme Court has nullified the National Lottery Act 2005, which was enacted by the National Assembly.

In a unanimous judgement, the seven-member panel of the Supreme Court held that the National Lottery Act 2005 should no longer be enforced in all states, except the Federal Capital Territory, in respect of which the National Assembly is empowered to make laws.

In the lead judgment delivered by Justice Mohammed Idris, the apex court held that the National Assembly lacked the powers to legislate on issues relating to lottery and games of chance.

The court also stated that such powers only reside with the state Houses of Assembly, which possess exclusive jurisdiction over lottery and games of chance.