Nigerian celebrities Davido and Peller are counting their losses after placing big bets on Nigeria’s AFCON semi-final match against Morocco. Davido staked a whopping $50,000 on Nigeria to win, while Peller bet $3,000 on the Super Eagles to triumph within 90 minutes. Unfortunately, Morocco won 4-2 on penalties, leaving both celebrities out of pocket.
Peller took to social media to vent his frustration, saying, “Thank you Super Eagles for playing very well. I have lost my $3,000 bet. You guys were playing well the previous games before I decided to place a bet and watch your match. Maybe, if I stop watching your games, you will start playing well again.”
Betting during games is a common practice, especially among sports enthusiasts. Many people enjoy placing bets on their favorite teams or players to add excitement to the game. However, experts caution that it’s essential to approach betting responsibly and within one’s means.
In Nigeria, sports betting is popular, with many online platforms offering various betting options. While some people win big, others lose, like Davido and Peller. According to reports, Davido’s loss is estimated at N75 million.
The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) has raised concerns about the financial risks associated with online gambling. In 2023, banks reported a loss of N9.5 billion, attributing it to the increasing efficiency of fraudsters in the online gaming business.
The most efficient tools used by fraudsters are betting platforms, wallet accounts, or point-of-sale (POS) agents, which are almost untraceable.
This is not an isolated incident, as high-stakes betting has led to significant losses globally. The biggest loss in bet history is held by Australian real estate billionaire Harry Kakavas, who lost a staggering $984 million between 2005 and 2006 while gambling at Crown Casino in Melbourne.
Other notable big losers include Terrance Watanabe, who lost $112 million in 2007, and Archie Karas, who lost $28 million in 1995. In Nigeria, the impact of such losses can be devastating, highlighting the need for responsible betting practices
As the country grapples with the challenges of online gambling, experts urge bettors to be cautious and aware of the risks involved. It’s essential to bet responsibly and within one’s means to avoid financial ruin.
The AFCON semi-final match has left many Nigerians disappointed, but it has also highlighted the importance of responsible betting practices. As the country moves forward, it’s crucial to prioritize financial prudence and avoid the pitfalls of high-stakes betting.
