Family seeks closure of son's betting accounts over alleged addiction

A family in Jalingo, Taraba State has requested that football betting companies operating in Ardo-Kola and Jalingo local government councils suspend or permanently close the betting accounts of their 18-year-old son, Paul Nwunuji Matudi, due to concerns over his gambling addiction. The family's representative, Abraham Nwunuji Matudi, wrote a letter dated October 30, 2026, to the management of these betting companies.

The family is worried that Paul's excessive involvement in sports betting is causing financial and emotional strain, and is affecting his ability to focus on his education. They are urging betting operators to close the account or freeze it to prevent further gambling activities and emphasised that the family will not be held responsible for any financial losses resulting from continued betting activities.

The family has also called on betting companies to meet their responsibility of responsible gambling, especially in cases where a customer is under 18 or showing signs of compulsive gambling behaviour. The family is hopeful that the betting companies will cooperate and confirm the closure of the accounts. This request comes amid growing concerns about the potential negative impact of excessive sports betting on young Nigerians, particularly on their financial stability and family relationships.