The family of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive who has been detained in Nigeria, is growing increasingly concerned about his deteriorating health. Gambaryan has been in custody since February 26th when his American passport was confiscated during a meeting with Nigerian officials in Abuja. Since then, he has not been able to see his wife and two young children.
The situation took a turn for the worse when the Abuja court went on summer recess on July 16th, with the next hearing scheduled for October 11th. Gambaryan’s legal team has been denied access to him since July 26th, which is a violation of the Nigerian constitution.
Gambaryan’s health has been declining while in custody at the Kuje prison. He made his last court appearance in a wheelchair, prompting the Judge to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the prison doctor for failing to produce the necessary medical report. The Judge also directed that Gambaryan be admitted to a hospital for proper treatment, but this order has not been carried out as the prison authorities are withholding his medical records.
The family revealed that Gambaryan is suffering from a herniated disc that requires complex surgery, as well as multiple throat infections, pneumonia, and malaria. He is currently on blood thinners to prevent clots. His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, is appealing to the Nigerian government to release him for urgent medical care, as his condition is worsening and could result in permanent damage, affecting his ability to walk.
The emotional toll of Gambaryan’s detention is also taking a toll on the family, with his wife expressing how difficult life has become in his absence. She emphasized the urgent need for him to receive the necessary medical attention to prevent further deterioration of his health.
It is crucial for the Nigerian authorities to prioritize Gambaryan’s health and well-being, ensuring that he receives the proper medical care he urgently needs. The family’s fears for his declining health highlight the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring that detainees are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances. Let us hope that Gambaryan’s situation is resolved swiftly, and he receives the necessary medical treatment to recover and reunite with his family.
