US Diplomats Advocate for Release of Binance Executive in Nigeria Due to Health Concerns
The U.S. government has been quietly urging Nigeria to release Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive who has been detained in the country since February. Gambaryan’s health issues while in custody have raised serious concerns, leading to calls for his release on humanitarian grounds.
According to a recent report by The New York Times, two senior State Department officials, who chose to remain anonymous, disclosed that U.S. diplomats have been actively working behind the scenes to push for Gambaryan’s release. U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken addressed Gambaryan’s case directly with Nigeria’s foreign minister in May, initiating a series of private discussions with key Nigerian officials, including President Bola Tinubu, regarding the executive’s release.
The U.S. diplomats have been emphasizing humanitarian concerns, citing reports of Gambaryan suffering from malaria and complications related to a herniated disk while in detention. Gambaryan’s family has also claimed that he has not been receiving adequate medical care in prison, which has worsened his health condition.
While Nigerian officials have maintained that Gambaryan has access to proper medical attention, the U.S. government continues to advocate for his release. One government representative stated that “the courtroom is the correct forum to assess the merits of any prosecution.”
Bayo Onanuga, a senior adviser to President Tinubu, acknowledged the U.S. government’s concerns and confirmed that discussions were ongoing. “Government will do all it can within the law, and also bearing in mind Gambaryan’s humanitarian rights,” Onanuga assured.
International Criticism and Strained Relations
Richard Teng has criticized the Nigerian government for its treatment of Gambaryan, particularly pointing out the “inhumane” conditions following a video that surfaced showing the executive in distress during a court appearance. The imprisonment of Gambaryan has become a significant point of contention in U.S.-Nigeria relations, with his attorneys urging the U.S. State Department to designate him as “wrongfully detained” in order to increase pressure on Nigeria.
In July, Rep. Rich McCormick introduced a resolution labeling Gambaryan’s detention as a “hostage” situation, accusing Nigeria of using him as leverage to extort the crypto exchange for money. Gambaryan, a former law enforcement officer, was arrested during a business trip in Nigeria, where he was conducting meetings regarding Binance’s operations in the country.
Authorities in Nigeria have accused Binance of destabilizing the local economy by facilitating the transfer of funds out of the country and devaluing the naira. Gambaryan was initially charged with money laundering and tax evasion, although the tax charges were later dropped. Binance has defended Gambaryan, stating that he should not be held accountable for the company’s actions as he is a mid-level employee.
Legal and Humanitarian Implications
The ongoing detention of Gambaryan raises significant legal and humanitarian concerns. While Nigerian officials maintain that Gambaryan has access to adequate medical care, the U.S. government continues to advocate for his release due to his deteriorating health condition.
The need for a fair and transparent legal process is crucial in addressing Gambaryan’s case. The U.S. diplomats have been actively engaging with Nigerian officials to ensure that his humanitarian rights are respected and that he receives the necessary medical attention.
Conclusion
The case of Tigran Gambaryan highlights the complex intersection of legal, diplomatic, and humanitarian issues. As U.S. diplomats continue to advocate for his release on humanitarian grounds, the international community watches closely to see how Nigeria will respond to these calls for justice and compassion. The outcome of this case will not only impact Gambaryan and his family but also has the potential to shape future relations between the U.S. and Nigeria in the realm of human rights and diplomatic engagement.