Nigeria Denies Allegations of Mistreatment of Detained Binance Executive

In response to mounting concerns over the health and treatment of detained Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, the Nigerian government has firmly denied claims of inadequate detention conditions. On June 21st, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris categorically stated that the allegations are “false.” Gambaryan, a Binance employee, is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Center near Abuja.

The Denial and Treatment

Minister Idris refuted allegations of mistreatment, asserting that Gambaryan is being treated with “utmost fairness” during his lawful detention. He emphasized that the Binance executive has access to quality medical care whenever required and full consular services from his home government. The Nigerian government aims to ensure Gambaryan’s fundamental rights to a lawful trial and quality care, including healthcare, as he undergoes trial by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

U.S. Lawmakers’ Concerns

U.S. lawmakers have expressed concern about Gambaryan’s situation. In a letter to President Joe Biden, House Republicans alleged that Gambaryan was not allowed to meet with his legal team without the presence of government officials and armed guards. They urged action to secure his immediate release, contending that the charges against him were unfounded and represented a coercive tactic by the Nigerian government to pressure Binance. Minister Idris, however, maintains that bringing Binance to justice is a legitimate quest.

Gambaryan’s Health Issues

Detained in Nigeria since late February on money laundering charges, Gambaryan collapsed in an Abuja courtroom in May due to malaria. Although a judge ordered him to be admitted to a hospital for evaluation, his family claims that it took prison authorities 11 days to take him for a brief check-up. Recently, Congressman French Hill (R-LA) and Cynthia Houlahan (D-PA) visited the prison and allege that Gambaryan’s condition has dramatically worsened .