A new investigation has revealed that dozens of betting companies declared illegal by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) continue to operate openly on Facebook and Instagram, raising fresh concerns over consumer protection, regulatory enforcement and the responsibility of global technology companies in tackling online fraud.
The investigation found that many of the blacklisted operators have remained active on Meta’s social media platforms, where they continue to advertise betting services, publish promotional offers and attract thousands of followers despite lacking valid licences to operate in Lagos State. Some of the accounts reportedly even display Meta’s verified badge, potentially giving users the impression that the businesses are legitimate.
Several users told investigators they lost significant sums of money after placing bets through platforms they discovered on Facebook and Instagram. Victims alleged that although they won their bets, the companies refused to release their winnings, ignored complaints or blocked access to their accounts. User comments reviewed during the investigation showed recurring allegations of unpaid winnings, failed withdrawals and poor customer support.
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority had previously published a list of unlicensed betting operators as part of its enforcement strategy. However, the investigation found that at least 30 of the 45 blacklisted companies continued to maintain active social media accounts months after the ban was announced. When contacted, the regulator reiterated its commitment to combating illegal gaming but did not directly address questions about whether it had asked Meta to remove the accounts.
Consumer protection advocates argue that the continued presence of these companies on widely used social media platforms exposes unsuspecting users to fraud and financial exploitation. They called on Meta to strengthen enforcement of its own advertising policies, which require gambling operators to obtain approval and comply with local laws before promoting betting services.
The findings have renewed calls for stronger cooperation between regulators, technology companies and law enforcement agencies to tackle illegal online gambling. Experts argue that removing fraudulent accounts promptly, improving digital consumer awareness and imposing tougher penalties on unlicensed operators are essential to protecting the public from financial scams conducted through social media platforms.
