The ongoing legal battle involving Tigran Gambaryan, a high-ranking executive at Binance, has taken a new turn as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) challenges the severity of the health issues presented by Gambaryan’s family and legal representatives. Gambaryan, who is currently detained in Nigeria on charges of money laundering, has been at the center of a heated dispute over his medical condition, which his family claims has deteriorated significantly during his detention.
Family’s Health Claims vs. EFCC’s Position
Gambaryan’s legal team and family have argued that his health has reached a critical state, with claims that he is bedridden due to a herniated disc, exacerbated by inadequate medical care while in detention. His lawyer, Mark Mordi SAN, filed a fresh bail application on medical grounds, citing the worsening of his condition as a reason for his release.
However, during a hearing at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, September 2, 2024, the EFCC strongly contested these claims. Ekene Iheanacho, the EFCC’s lead counsel, informed Justice Emeka Nwite that Gambaryan’s health is not as dire as portrayed. Iheanacho stated that despite Gambaryan’s long-standing herniated disc issue, he had been observed walking within the detention facility, directly contradicting the claims that he is unable to move and is confined to a bed.
EFCC’s Response to Medical Allegations
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The EFCC further argued that Gambaryan has been receiving the necessary medical attention from Nigerian authorities, including hospital visits. Iheanacho suggested that the depiction of Gambaryan’s health by his legal team had been exaggerated to secure his release on bail. This stance was taken in response to a statement released by Gambaryan’s family on August 26, 2024, which accused Nigerian authorities of neglecting his health needs, resulting in muscle atrophy and the requirement for blood thinners to prevent clots.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The case against Gambaryan and another Binance executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, centers on allegations of money laundering linked to illegal activities in Nigeria. The trial, which has attracted significant attention due to the involvement of high-profile figures in the cryptocurrency world, is scheduled to continue on October 11, 2024.
In a related development, the court previously issued a bench warrant on July 30, 2024, for the arrest of Dr. Abraham Ehizojie, a medical professional at Kuje Correctional Centre’s health facility. The warrant was issued after the doctor failed to provide the medical report for Gambaryan or appear in court as ordered. Gambaryan’s lawyer had previously highlighted his client’s health issues, noting that he had appeared in court in a wheelchair on at least one occasion.
Justice Emeka Nwite has adjourned the case to September 4, 2024, for further proceedings, where the court is expected to continue its examination of the health claims and the ongoing legal arguments surrounding the case.
This development underscores the complexities and high stakes of the legal battle facing Gambaryan and his co-defendants, as well as the broader implications for international financial crimes and the enforcement of justice across borders.
