Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan’s Detention in Nigeria Extended Until October
Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan will remain detained in Nigeria until at least October, as the Federal High Court has adjourned his money laundering trial. On July 16, Justice Emeka Nwite postponed the trial to Oct. 11 because a court-ordered medical report for Gambaryan was missing.
This latest delay means Gambaryan will have been in Nigerian custody for around eight months by October, having been detained since February 2024. Gambaryan was initially held in a guest house in Abuja with another Binance executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, who escaped in March. Gambaryan was later transferred to the Kuje Correctional Centre after pleading not guilty to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) money laundering charges.
Health Concerns
Gambaryan’s health appears to be declining, as he arrived in court in a wheelchair on July 16. Earlier this month, Justice Nwite ordered prison management to produce Gambaryan’s medical certificate by July 16. His lawyer, Mark Mordi, highlighted the importance of ensuring Gambaryan receives proper medical care during his detention.
Controversy Surrounds Nigerian Prisoner’s Medical Treatment
A Nigerian prisoner, Gambaryan, is at the center of controversy surrounding his medical treatment in prison. His lawyer recently raised concerns about his deteriorating health, leading to a court order for a medical report.
However, the prison doctor, Abraham Ehizojie, failed to appear with the report, prompting the judge to issue a bench warrant for his arrest. The judge also directed that Gambaryan be admitted to a hospital for proper treatment.
Latest Development in Ongoing Trial
This development is the latest twist in Gambaryan’s ongoing trial. In May, he collapsed in court and was visited by US lawmakers who reported he had malaria and pneumonia. The Nigerian government, however, refuted these claims, stating that Gambaryan is receiving fair treatment and quality medical care.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized that Gambaryan is held in lawful detention with access to quality medical care and consular services from his home government. The Federal Government is committed to ensuring his well-being.
The Importance of Upholding Fundamental Rights in Nigeria
In Nigeria, it is crucial to ensure that every individual has access to a fair trial and quality care, including healthcare, regardless of their circumstances. These fundamental rights are essential for maintaining a just and equitable society.
By jeopardizing an individual’s right to a lawful trial and quality care, we are undermining the very foundation of our legal system and failing to uphold the principles of justice and equality. It is imperative that we prioritize the protection of these rights for all individuals, no matter their background or situation.
As a society, we must remain vigilant in defending and upholding the fundamental rights of every individual, even during times of trial or adversity. Only by ensuring that everyone has access to a fair trial and quality care can we truly create a just and compassionate society for all.
