Bitrabo Editorial
Nigeria’s prison officials have announced that Tigran Gambaryan, a detained Binance executive, is seriously unwell, which has led to his absence in court once again during his trial.
This alarming situation was previously highlighted by his wife almost two months ago, who noted a severe decline in Gambaryan’s health since his detention began in April.
Trial Postponed to October 25
Gambaryan’s court proceedings have been rescheduled following his inability to appear on his originally intended date due to health issues. His trial was set for October 18, but Judge Emeka Nwite adjourned after acknowledging that Gambaryan, a US citizen, couldn’t attend due to sickness. The judge postponed the trial to allow for necessary medical care.
Judge Nwite announced that the trial would now continue on October 25, ensuring Gambaryan has sufficient time to receive medical treatment.
Nigerian Court Adjourns Trial Of Detained Binance Executive, Gambaryan, Declared As ‘Very Sick’ By Prison Authorities pic.twitter.com/uemQTOncdx
— Aneke Tv (@AnekeTv) October 18, 2024
The judge also mandated that Gambaryan be taken to a standard hospital under security supervision for treatment lasting up to two weeks while he recovers.
Since February, Gambaryan has been held by Nigerian authorities, facing allegations related to a $35 million money laundering case.
7/7 Jailed Binance Exec’s Nigeria Trial Postponed After He Fails to Come to Court ― ‘He’s Very Sick’
UAE – DL News
Over the last several months in Nigeria, Tigran Gambaryan has fought off the effects of malaria, endured the pain of a bad back, & shuffled… pic.twitter.com/Iq7hhdSoHT— Hostage Aid Worldwide (@HostageAid) October 18, 2024
Concerns Over Gambaryan’s Health
In August, Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, alerted the court about her husband’s rapidly worsening health condition since his arrest in April. She expressed fears that his serious medical issues could lead to lasting damage to his physical mobility.
Yuki has also requested the court to temporarily release Gambaryan to prevent any further deterioration of his health.
Request For Bail Denied
Earlier, Gambaryan had sought court approval to post bail in order to receive surgical treatment outside prison walls, but his application was rejected for the second time. The federal court determined there was no evidence showing that the Nigerian Correctional Service was incapable of providing for his medical needs.
Yuki expressed her shock at this ruling, emphasizing it was unjust to deny her husband essential medical care.
A representative from Binance shared their disappointment regarding the court’s verdict, highlighting that Gambaryan has been unlawfully detained for over 220 days.
Comments from Binance officials on social media have called for Gambaryan’s immediate release, citing his deteriorating health. Binance’s CEO Richard Teng alleged that Nigerian officials demanded compliance with a “secret” deal related to the ongoing legal issues. However, Nigerian authorities have dismissed these claims, labeling them as mere distractions from the truth.
Featured image from Harvard Gazette, chart from TradingView