Bitrabo Editorial
The United States government is ramping up efforts to secure the release of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive who has been detained in Nigeria since February 2024.
Reports indicate that Gambaryan’s health has severely declined during his imprisonment, prompting US officials to advocate for his release on humanitarian grounds.
He is facing serious allegations related to money laundering and tax evasion in Nigeria after being arrested while attending operational meetings for Binance.
This situation has sparked high-level discussions between American diplomats and Nigerian officials, making it a critical issue in US-Nigeria relations.
Increasing Diplomatic Engagement
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has taken a personal interest in the case, expressing concerns directly to his Nigerian counterpart. American representatives are negotiating with several senior Nigerian officials, including the president and finance minister.
They emphasize the importance of Gambaryan’s release due to his serious health issues, including a ruptured disc and symptoms suggestive of malaria. His family claims he has not received adequate medical care, leading to a rapid decline in his health status.
The urgency of the situation has prompted additional pressure from US lawmakers. In June, a group of American legislators visited Gambaryan in prison to advocate for his release. His wife, Yuki, has openly expressed her frustration, stating she would be “extremely offended” if the US government welcomes Nigerian officials while her husband remains detained.
Health Concerns of the Binance Executive
Reports indicate that Gambaryan, a former law enforcement officer in the US, is grappling with severe health challenges. His condition has worsened due to malaria and a lack of appropriate medical care. Concerns about his deteriorating health were raised during recent court appearances, where he was reportedly seen using crutches instead of a wheelchair.
Richard Teng, the CEO of Binance, has also called for Gambaryan’s release, criticizing the Nigerian government for what he describes as “baseless claims” against him.
Teng warns that this situation could set a troubling precedent for global companies, underlining the potential dangers that executives may face in foreign markets.
Impact on US-Nigeria Relations
The detention of Gambaryan has strained US-Nigeria relations, which have traditionally been strong. This incident has created significant tension between the two nations.
The US recognizes that Gambaryan’s case could impact future diplomatic interactions, especially with upcoming meetings involving Nigerian officials attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
As the US continues to call for Gambaryan’s release, the outcome remains uncertain. A combination of health concerns, diplomatic efforts, and public pressure may compel the Nigerian government to reconsider their stance.
Featured image from Olamikan Gbemiga/AP, chart from TradingView