In a troubling development, Nigerian prison authorities have reported that detained Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, is experiencing severe health issues. This revelation has postponed his trial yet again, adding to the growing concerns voiced by his wife, Yuki, nearly two months earlier. She had already warned that Gambaryan’s health had significantly deteriorated since his detention in April.
Trial Postponement: New Date Set for October 25
Gambaryan’s trial has been rescheduled to October 25 after he was unable to appear in court on the previously set date of October 18 due to his poor health. The embattled executive, a U.S. citizen, is entangled in a $35-million money laundering case. Judge Emeka Nwite, presiding over the case, has adjourned proceedings to allow Gambaryan time for medical treatment.
Judge Nwite has mandated that the Nigerian correctional facility ensure Gambaryan receives treatment in a standard hospital under security supervision for up to two weeks. This decision underscores the severity of Gambaryan’s health condition and the need for prompt medical intervention.
Concerns Over Gambaryan’s Health
In August, Yuki Gambaryan alerted the court to her husband’s worsening health condition. She emphasized that his health has significantly declined since his detention began in April, warning that without proper medical care, his condition could lead to irreversible damage, impacting his mobility.
Yuki has passionately appealed for her husband’s temporary release to prevent further deterioration of his health. Despite her efforts, the court has denied bail, citing a lack of evidence that the Nigerian Correctional Service is incapable of managing his medical needs.
Denied Bail and International Reactions
Earlier attempts by Gambaryan to secure bail for surgery outside prison were rejected by the Nigerian federal court. The court’s decision has been met with disbelief by Yuki, who argues it unfairly denies her husband the necessary medical attention.
Binance has also expressed its dismay at the court’s ruling. The company has accused Nigerian authorities of unlawfully detaining Gambaryan for over 220 days and has called for his immediate release, given his deteriorating health. Binance CEO Richard Teng has openly criticized Nigerian officials, accusing them of attempting to coerce the crypto exchange into a “secret” deal to resolve the legal charges — an accusation that Nigerian authorities have denied.
This ongoing legal saga has attracted considerable attention, not only because of the serious health implications for Gambaryan but also due to the broader implications for international legal proceedings and the treatment of foreign nationals in Nigerian custody.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Tigran Gambaryan’s detention and trial is complex and fraught with legal and humanitarian considerations. As his trial date approaches, all eyes remain on the Nigerian courts and their handling of this sensitive case, particularly in light of Gambaryan’s critical health status.
