Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, underscored that Gambaryan receives complete consular assistance from his native government.
The Nigerian Federal Government has refuted allegations of substandard prison conditions for Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan, claiming that he is provided with comprehensive consular services and high-quality medical care. The government has also emphasized the importance of judicial integrity and a lawful trial.
Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, issued the rebuttal statement on Friday, June 21.
After visiting Gambaryan at the Kuje Detention facility on June 19th, 2024 and posting a video of the visit on X calling for his release, two US Representatives—Republican French Hill and Democrat Chrissy Houlahan—recently made a post, which Idris follows.
Idris made it clear in his statement that Gambaryan’s detention is based on a court order, and that only the court has the authority to modify the terms or order his release. The minister clarified that Gambaryan has access to essential healthcare services, despite being in lawful custody.
“Binance CEO Tigran Gambaryan’s alleged deteriorating health or squalid incarceration conditions in Nigeria have prompted the country’s federal government to take action.”
The minister underscored that Gambaryan receives complete consular assistance from his native government. As he is currently subject to legal proceedings in Nigeria, he emphasized the government’s dedication to safeguarding his fundamental rights, which include access to quality healthcare and a fair trial.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria will persist in following the proper legal channels in its pursuit of holding Binance accountable—a rightful independent pursuit that is being undertaken by multiple nations across the globe.”
Yuki, Gambaryan’s wife, has requested that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) emulate the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and release her husband. She has cited the FIRS’s recent withdrawal of charges as a precedent.
The U.S. legislators expressed their support for her, asserting that Tigran has dedicated his professional career to combating tax evasion and money laundering. He has effectively led cyber and financial crime investigations and served as an IRS Special Agent for a decade, according to them.
Abdulkadir Abbas, a director at the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), resumed his testimony in the EFCC’s case against Binance and Gambaryan during the June 21 hearing. He reiterated that Binance had not obtained the requisite registration to operate in Nigeria. On July 1, the cross-examination will resume.
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