In a recent development surrounding the ongoing legal case against Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, the Nigerian government has firmly rejected allegations of mistreatment and deteriorating health conditions of the detainee. This response comes in the wake of concerns raised by two United States lawmakers who urged for Gambaryan’s release on humanitarian grounds.
Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, issued a statement on Friday, addressing the situation.
He stated, “The federal government will not do anything to jeopardize his fundamental rights to lawful trial, and to quality care, including healthcare, even as he undergoes trial by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Idris further clarified, “It is worth reiterating that his detention is a court-ordered one, and only the court can alter the terms or direct his release.”
The minister assured that Gambaryan, who faces charges of tax evasion and money laundering, is being held in lawful detention with access to quality medical care and full consular services from his home government.
The controversy escalated when U.S. Representatives French Hill (Republican) and Chrissy Houlahan (Democrat) visited Gambaryan at Kuje prison in Abuja. Following their visit, Hill stated, “We have asked our embassy to advocate for a humanitarian release of Tigran because of the horrible conditions of the prison, his innocence and his health.”
Houlahan added her observations, noting, “He was also clearly under a lot of stress and his health is not very good.” These comments have fueled the debate over Gambaryan’s detention conditions.
However, the Nigerian government maintains its stance on following due process. Idris assured, “This adherence to legal and diplomatic standards underscores Nigeria’s dedication to upholding justice and maintaining the integrity of its judicial processes.”
Recalls, Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and head of financial crimes compliance for Binance, has been in custody since February. While tax evasion charges against him were recently dropped, he still faces money laundering charges. His trial, which was in court on Friday, has been adjourned to July 1.
The case has drawn international attention, with 16 Republican lawmakers writing to President Joe Biden on June 4, accusing Nigeria of holding Gambaryan hostage, according to Bloomberg.
The Nigerian government’s firm stance on following due process, coupled with assurances of fair treatment, sets the stage for a closely watched legal battle with potential implications for international business practices and diplomatic relations.
