The Nigerian government has refuted allegations that Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan is being held in poor prison conditions. A government minister has stated that Gambaryan is receiving adequate medical care and consular services, and stressed the commitment to a fair trial and judicial integrity.
In a statement released on June 21st, Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, addressed the claims made about Gambaryan’s health and the prison conditions he is allegedly facing.
Idris’ statement follows a recent visit to Gambaryan at the Kuje Detention facility on June 19th by two United States Members of Congress, Representative French Hill and Representative Chrissy Houlahan. The congress members posted a video of their visit on X and called for Gambaryan’s release.
In his statement, Idris highlighted that Gambaryan’s detention is based on a court order, and only the court has the authority to modify the terms or order his release. The minister asserted that despite being in custody, Gambaryan has access to necessary healthcare services.
Idris further emphasized that Gambaryan is receiving full consular support from his home government. The government remains committed to ensuring his basic rights, including access to quality healthcare and a fair trial as he faces legal proceedings in Nigeria.
There has been support from U.S. lawmakers for Gambaryan’s release. His wife, Yuki, has appealed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to follow the example set by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and release her husband. U.S. lawmakers have backed her appeal, stating that Gambaryan has dedicated his professional life to combating money laundering and tax evasion. They highlighted his ten years of service as a special agent at the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, where he successfully led investigations into cyber and financial crimes.
During the hearing on June 21st, Abdulkadir Abbas, a director at the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission, resumed his testimony in the EFCC’s case against Binance and Gambaryan. Abbas reiterated that Binance had not obtained the necessary registration to operate in Nigeria. The case has been adjourned until July 1st for further cross-examination.
In the realm of crypto-related crime, U.S. enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to combat such activities.