Bail for detained Binance exec opposed in Nigeria

Nigeria’s top court heard arguments for and against the release of a jailed Binance employee after Binance CEO Richard Teng urged US intervention.

Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan’s trial resumed in Abuja on September 2 after Nigerian prosecutors objected to his bail request and downplayed his health condition.

People present at the hearing told crypto.news that Gambaryan appeared to be “in visibly pain and very distressed.” Binance staff, who had previously been allowed in a wheelchair, were reportedly denied access to mobility aids this time and were forced to enter court on crutches.

Gambaryan’s lawyers have applied for bail, asking the judge to allow him to be released for medical attention. His legal representatives and his wife, Yuki Gambaryan, have highlighted the deplorable living conditions in Kuje prison where he has been held for months.

Nigerian prosecutors have denied the allegations and accused Gambaryan of refusing medical treatment. The trial was adjourned until September 2, with a bail hearing expected to continue.

Binance CEO invokes US influence in Nigeria case

Nigerian authorities have held Gambaryan for more than six months since he entered the African country in February. Gambaryan, a former IRS agent, and two Binance employees, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were arrested on allegations of money laundering and tax evasion.

Anjarwalla’s escape from custody has led to tougher measures being imposed on Gambaryan, who is currently battling pneumonia, malaria and tonsillitis and requires surgery.

Binance CEO Richard Teng has asked US authorities to establish diplomatic relations with the Nigerian government to secure Gambaryan’s release. Teng stressed that Gambaryan has no decision-making authority at the crypto giant and should not face the charges against the company.

Pro-crypto politician Rep. French Hill also called on the White House to intervene in Gambaryan’s case. Visiting the jailed executive in June with colleague Chrissy Houlahan, Rep. Hill described the situation as a political dispute in Nigeria and advocated for his freedom.

Gambaryan’s wife, meanwhile, has expressed concerns about the long-term effects of his prison sentence. According to a statement shared with crypto.news on September 2, Gambaryan can barely walk and has been denied legal counsel, while Nigerian prosecutors have said his condition is far from critical.

I am also deeply concerned by the recent statements by Nigerian authorities denying Tigran’s health issues. The truth is that the prison has been withholding his medical records for months and even the partial records they finally released today say that Tigran needs surgery. They cannot continue to play games with my husband’s life like this. This whole situation is inhumane and degrading and I am fed up. There must be consequences for these violations of law and human rights.

Yuki Gambaryan on her husband’s condition in Kuje Prison