Bet9ja denies owing Enugu State as shops remain closed
The CEO explained that the company had attempted to resolve the matter before the closures but was unable to reach an agreement.
Nigeria.- Bet9ja’s parent company, KC Gaming Networks Limited, has rejected claims that it owes the Enugu State government any fees, levies, taxes or gross gaming revenue payments following the sealing of its shops across the state. In a statement issued on February 12, Dr Ayo Ojuroye, Bet9ja’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said the company owes nothing and has met all its obligations since it began operations in Enugu more than 12 years ago.
Ojuroye added that Bet9ja has consistently made payments on time, describing KC Gaming Networks Limited as a model corporate entity in meeting required fees, levies and taxes throughout its years of operation in Enugu State.
Bet9ja’s outlets were closed on February 9 after the Enugu State High Court issued an ex parte order directing the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission to seal the company’s premises pending a full hearing. The CEO explained that the company had attempted to resolve the matter before the closures but was unable to reach an agreement, noting that it had engaged the Enugu State Government through the Gaming and Lotto Commission and the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service on multiple occasions without success.
Ojuroye emphasised that the company would not accept charges it believes are unjustified, stating that it would not be pressured into paying levies or taxes it does not generate in Enugu State to any government agency.
He added that KC Gaming Networks Limited would pursue a resolution through the existing legal process, with the matter already before the Enugu State High Court. The statement also reassured agents, partners and the public that the company would continue to follow due process to ensure the closures are lifted and that justice prevails.
As of February 19, 2026, the shops remain closed, with both parties awaiting the High Court’s decision on whether operations can resume.
