On November 26, 2025, the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission (ESGC) publicly declared that it has no connections with Betjapa, a now-defunct online betting platform. The announcement came in the wake of Betjapa abruptly going offline, spurring a wave of complaints from players who reported unpaid winnings and alleged that the platform operated under a forged license.
The ESGC emphasized that Betjapa never received authorization to operate within Enugu State or anywhere else in Nigeria. The Commission denounced the use of a counterfeit ESGC license by Betjapa, categorizing it as criminal misrepresentation. In response, the ESGC has announced plans to pursue legal actions against the perpetrators of these fraudulent activities.
Betjapa, known for offering an array of services including sports betting, virtual gaming, and casino products, suddenly disappeared from the internet in mid-November. This left thousands of Nigerian users unable to access their accounts, with many still awaiting payouts. The amounts owed range from ₦16,000 (€9.56) to over ₦400,000 (€238.8). Users became aware of issues when the platform stopped functioning and customer support became unresponsive.
The platform was powered by FlexBet, a sportsbook engine developed by DME Systems Limited, a technology firm based in Douala, Cameroon. The Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission revealed that Betjapa falsely displayed a license certificate with the Commission’s name and logo on its homepage, which was never legitimately issued.
In reaction to these events, the ESGC directed a formal demand to DME Systems over two weeks ago. The demand requested the identification of local Nigerian partners and payment of required regulatory fines. The Commission also insisted on a proper license application should the company wish to resume operations in Enugu State. Despite these directives, DME Systems has not complied. Instead, as complaints against Betjapa escalated on social media, the company chose to take the platform offline and issued a limited number of refunds selectively.
Prince Arinze Arum, Executive Secretary of the ESGC, commented in the official statement that the refusal to comply with regulatory directives and the abrupt closure of the platform after a public uproar signified an attempt to shirk responsibility. This was seen as deliberate exploitation of Nigerian citizens through illicit gaming activities.
The Enugu gaming regulator has issued a severe warning to all operators: utilizing DME Systems’ technology in Nigeria without a valid local license will result in sanctions. The Commission further warned that Cameroonian firm representatives could face arrest upon entry into Nigeria. It highlighted its dedication to pursuing international legal action to obtain compensation for damages and to protect its reputation.
Players affected by the Betjapa debacle are encouraged to lodge formal reports via the ESGC portal. The regulator stressed that any legitimate licensing applications or inquiries must be channeled through official means and never managed by third-party agents or foreign technology providers.
This episode is the latest in a series of failures involving unlicensed platforms in Nigeria this year. It coincides with efforts from state gaming commissions to tighten oversight and improve regulations, especially after the Supreme Court’s decision to diminish the powers of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC).
Industry observers suggest that this incident might hasten the creation of a public registry of approved technology suppliers, aiming to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Experts argue that such a registry could serve as a critical tool in safeguarding the integrity of the gaming industry, ensuring only vetted and compliant operators and technology providers are allowed to participate in the market.
While the ESGC seeks to hold responsible parties accountable, there is an underlying concern within the industry about the implications of such fraudulent activities on consumer trust. As one insider noted, “Restoring confidence in the gaming sector will require a concerted effort from regulators and operators alike, ensuring transparency and adherence to established guidelines.”
Conversely, some argue that the onus also lies with consumers to be more vigilant. With numerous online platforms available, players are encouraged to perform due diligence by verifying the credentials of any gaming site before engaging in financial transactions. This includes checking for valid licenses and looking for reviews from other users.
As the scenario unfolds, all eyes will be on how the regulatory landscape in Nigeria evolves to address these challenges. The ESGC’s firm stance against Betjapa and its commitment to international legal routes may set a precedent for similar cases, potentially leading to a more robust framework that deters illegal operations and fosters a safer gaming environment for all involved.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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