Mr. Don Onyenji, Anambra's Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, has urged Lottery and Gambling operators to conduct their businesses in accordance with the law.
Onyenji asked the operators to dismiss the rumour that the Anambra state government has banned their operations within the state.
On Saturday in Awka, the Commissioner issued a press statement containing the latest directions.
"The Anambra state government has been made aware of the different misinterpretations of its directions to operators of casino games based in hotels and restaurants in the state to cease operations.
"This was in response to written and video petitions regarding potential fraudulent operations, a lack of transparency, and the nonpayment of Game winnings to players.
"A portion of the directives reads as follows: 'The Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism in collaboration with the Anambra state Internal Revenue Service AIRS and the Ministry of Homeland Affairs hereby directs all operators of Casino Games within Hotels, Restaurants, and Bars to immediately cease all operations.
"The suspension will stay until all investigations are complete," he stated.
All hotel owners and bar owners in the state have been asked to a conference to discuss security and other services and regulatory issues, according to the commissioner.
Nonetheless, he stated, "It is incredibly sad that some mischief-makers added lottery and betting activities and organisations to the list of prohibited activities."
He stated that the Government hereby declares unambiguously that the suspension applies only to Casino Games operators in hotels and hospitality establishments, excluding all other betting establishments in the state.
Onyenji stated that the government has identified the owners of the gaming machine in question and that investigations into the allegation have advanced.
According to him, the websites at issue in the complaint have temporarily shut down their computers.
Onyenji stated that government investigations would be concluded in record time if the reported case is handled properly and discharged.
When all assurances are made to preserve the interests of all players, he said, the organisation would be permitted to promptly resume its operations.
The commissioner stated that the government is in place to protect all such operators, ensuring the security of their operations within the state.
He urged all business owners in the state to continue operating without interference and to disregard the bogus reports of "fifth columnists."
