Cross River Government Launches Major Crackdown On Illegal Online Betting Operators

The Cross River State Government has intensified efforts to cleanse its gaming industry through a comprehensive clampdown on illegal and non-compliant online betting and lottery operators. According to Ireporter Online, the move is part of a strategic initiative aimed at protecting citizens from fraudulent platforms and fostering a transparent and regulated gaming environment.

The enforcement drive follows a groundbreaking partnership between the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency and a major global search engine, designed to strengthen oversight of digital betting operations and enable decisive action against unlicensed entities.

Speaking in Abuja, the Director-General of the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency, Hon. Michael Eja, described the collaboration as a turning point in the state’s regulatory framework. He noted that the partnership was made possible by the enactment of the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law 2025, which grants the agency legal authority to extend its enforcement mechanisms into online spaces.

“In the past, we struggled to bring online operators under regulation, particularly those without a physical presence in the state,” Eja explained. “With this new law, we now have both the legal and technological capacity to ensure compliance.”

He added that the agreement empowers the agency to request the removal of illegal betting content, restrict unauthorised advertisements, and initiate legal proceedings against violators. The DG emphasised that the initiative seeks to protect players from exploitation while creating a fair business environment for licensed operators.

“This development benefits everyone. Genuine operators can now advertise freely on approved digital platforms, while fraudulent ones will face severe penalties. Our task is to regulate, monitor, and enforce compliance,” he said.

Eja further highlighted that the state’s crackdown aligns with broader efforts by the Cross River Government to promote transparency, accountability, and investor confidence within the gaming industry. He urged all betting and lottery operators to comply fully with existing laws and uphold ethical practices.

“We want operators to know that Cross River is not just open for business but for sustainable and responsible growth,” he added.