The Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed claims concerning the deteriorating health of Binance Exec Tigran Gambaryan, who is held on money laundering charges.
Signs of Health Deterioration
Tigran Gambaryan, who has been in Nigerian custody for six months, appeared in an Abuja courtroom in a visibly distressed state. He has been battling a herniated disc and other health issues. Despite requests, he was denied the use of a wheelchair and was forced to enter the courtroom on crutches. According to his family, his health has been rapidly declining, and he is suffering from pneumonia, malaria, and tonsillitis. A video circulating on social media captured Gambaryan's distress as he pleaded for assistance while being escorted into the courtroom by a prison guard.
Legal Battle Over Bail
Following Monday’s court appearance, Gambaryan's legal team filed a new application for bail, arguing that his deteriorating health necessitates immediate medical attention. They cited the prison conditions at Kuje prison as a significant factor in his declining health and noted that these conditions have also hindered his ability to prepare for trial. However, the EFCC countered these claims, with lead counsel Ekene Iheanacho informing the court that Gambaryan's health issues were being exaggerated. Iheanacho argued that the executive’s condition was not as critical as presented. Nigerian authorities have asserted that Gambaryan has access to quality medical care whenever required, along with consular services from the United States.
Medical Concerns and Missing Records
Gambaryan’s family and legal team have raised concerns over the adequacy of the medical care provided to him while in custody. According to a family spokesperson, key elements of Gambaryan’s medical records, including an MRI scan, were withheld from the court during the bail hearing. The available records reportedly indicate a need for immediate surgery, yet the prison authorities have refused to acknowledge the severity of his condition. Gambaryan's wife, Yuki, issued a statement condemning the Nigerian government's actions. She revealed that her husband had been lured to Nigeria under false pretenses and has since been unlawfully detained. During this prolonged imprisonment, his health continues to deteriorate, and now, he is in so much pain that he can barely walk.
Tigran Gambaryan, Binance's Head of Financial Compliance and a former U.S. IRS Special Agent, was detained along with Binance’s Africa Regional Manager, Nadeem Anjarwalla, in February 2024. They were accused of profiting from illegal transactions in Nigeria, leading to a $35 million money laundering and tax violation indictment. Although tax charges against the executives were dropped in June, the money laundering charges remain, with Binance now the sole defendant in the case.
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