- Court Hearing and Tigran Gambaryan’s Condition
- Legal and Medical Challenges
- Family and Officials’ Reaction
Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in Nigeria since February, was seen in distress entering an Abuja courtroom, highlighting the challenges he faces in custody.
Court Hearing and Tigran Gambaryan’s Condition
On Monday, Tigran Gambaryan was seen struggling into an Abuja courtroom as prison officials denied his request for a wheelchair. Footage shared on X (formerly Twitter) shows Gambaryan pleading with a prison guard for help, saying, “I’m not okay, this is messed up,” while gripping the guard’s wrist. The guard pulled away, leaving Gambaryan with just one crutch, prompting him to say, “He was told not to assist me. Why can’t I use a wheelchair? This is absurd. I’m innocent. Why is this happening?”
Legal and Medical Challenges
Gambaryan’s attorneys submitted a new bail application on medical grounds, citing serious health issues like malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and severe pain from a herniated disc. Gambaryan’s condition has worsened, severely impacting his mobility. The EFCC, prosecuting Gambaryan for money laundering, opposed the bail request, arguing that his health is not as dire as claimed and that he is refusing treatment. His previous bail request was rejected in May. Kuje prison authorities, who have held Gambaryan since March, have been reluctant to release his medical records. Some records were provided during Monday’s hearing, indicating a need for urgent surgery but missing crucial details like an MRI scan.
Family and Officials’ Reaction
In addition to inadequate medical care, Gambaryan has had limited access to his lawyers and U.S. embassy representatives. His wife, Yuki, condemned the situation as “inhumane and degrading,” calling on the U.S. Government to take action to secure her husband’s release and address violations of his rights.
Tigran Gambaryan’s situation draws attention to the difficult conditions faced by detainees and their rights to medical assistance. His continued detention raises concerns among his family and lawyers, who demand that his case be reconsidered with regard to his health and rights.
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