CROSS RIVER MOVES AGAINST STAKE.COM OVER ALLEGED UNLICENSED GAMING OPERATIONS

The Cross River State Government has declared Stake.com a persona non grata in the state and ordered enforcement action against the online gaming operator over what authorities described as unlicensed gaming activities. The development comes as the state intensifies efforts to regulate betting and gaming operations and ensure that companies operating within its jurisdiction comply with applicable laws and licensing requirements.

The state government said the decision followed concerns over Stake.com’s alleged failure to obtain the necessary approval to conduct gaming activities in Cross River. Authorities maintained that operators involved in betting and gaming must meet regulatory requirements before offering their services to residents, stressing that compliance is necessary to protect consumers and ensure that the sector operates within the law.

As part of the enforcement process, relevant state authorities have been directed to identify and take action against operations linked to the platform. The government is also expected to monitor activities associated with the company to ensure that the declaration is effectively implemented and that unlicensed gaming activities do not continue within the state.

The action reflects a broader attempt by Cross River to bring gaming operators under closer regulatory supervision. The state has continued to emphasise the importance of proper licensing, payment of applicable taxes and adherence to regulations governing betting and gaming businesses, particularly as the sector continues to expand through online platforms and digital payment systems.

The government warned gaming companies operating in the state to ensure that they obtain the required licences and comply with existing regulations. The enforcement against Stake.com is therefore expected to serve as a signal to other operators that businesses providing gaming services in Cross River must meet the state’s regulatory requirements before they can legally operate.