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KC Gaming Networks Limited, operator of Bet9ja, has denied owing any fees or taxes to Enugu State, following the closure of its retail outlets by the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission.
The shutdown, which took place on 9 February 2026, was carried out pursuant to what the regulator described as an ex-parte order granted by the High Court of Enugu State in Suit No. 6/54/2025.
In a formal statement signed by Managing Director and CEO Dr. Ayo Ojuroye, the company rejected the basis for the enforcement action and said it would pursue legal remedies to reverse the closures.
Bet9ja: “No Legitimate Fees Owed”
According to the operator, it does not owe the Enugu State Government — whether through the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission or any other agency — any “legitimate fees, levies, taxes or outstanding payments.”
KC Gaming Networks stated it has operated in Enugu State for more than 12 years and described itself as “a model corporate entity” in meeting its financial obligations, including license fees and Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) remittances.
The company also said it has engaged multiple times with both the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission and the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service in an attempt to resolve the dispute, but without success.
In a pointed section of the statement, Bet9ja added that it
“will not be stampeded into paying levies/taxes it does not generate from Enugu State,”
signalling that the disagreement may center on revenue attribution and the calculation of state-level obligations.
Legal Battle Moves to the High Court
The enforcement action follows what the regulator previously characterised as a prolonged compliance process, citing alleged failures to revalidate licences and outstanding statutory obligations.
However, Bet9ja’s response reframes the issue as a contested interpretation of financial and regulatory requirements, rather than non-compliance.
The company confirmed it will “follow due process” and continue legal proceedings at the High Court of Enugu State to challenge the closures.
For now, the dispute highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s multi-layer regulatory framework, where state-level gaming authorities can pursue enforcement action against nationally recognised operators with significant retail footprints.
Broader Regulatory Implications
The case underscores the operational exposure facing retail betting brands in Nigeria, particularly in states where local regulators are prepared to rely on court orders to enforce licensing and revenue compliance.
If the matter proceeds to a substantive hearing beyond the initial ex-parte order, it could clarify the scope of state-level powers over revenue assessment, licence revalidation and GGR remittance — issues that remain commercially sensitive for operators with decentralised retail networks.
Bet9ja said it remains committed to resolving the matter “legally” and reassured agents and partners that it is working to have the closures reversed.
