Michael Chukwuebuka Reporting
GOVERNOR of Anambra State, Nigeria, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has banned the operations of casinos and gaming centres in the state, including BetNaija over alleged “dark deals.”
Stonix News reports that popular gambling services in Nigeria include Bet9ja, 1960bet, Nairabet, 9jaPredict and BetNigeria.
The notice of the ban is contained in a statement jointly signed by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr Donatus Onyenji; Chairman, Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, Richard Madiebo and the Commissioner for Homeland Affairs, Chikodi Anara.
The ban, the statement said, was a sequel to a worrisome number of petitions recently received by the government concerning the manipulation of casino machines and non-transparency in payment for winnings.
It said the allegations amounted to serious abuse of global best practices in the industry which the government, under the watch of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, would not condone.
The statement reads in part: “This fraudulent practice will not be allowed to thrive under the watch of Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s administration and therefore must be dealt with immediately.
“Consequently, the Anambra government hereby directs operators of casino games in Hotels, Restaurants and Bars to suspend all Gaming and Casino operations with immediate effect pending the conclusion of investigations.”