In the wake of a recent court proceeding in Nigeria, Binance has released an official statement voicing deep concern over the treatment of its detained executive, Tigran Gambaryan. The statement follows a hearing at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, September 2, 2024, where the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) denied claims that Gambaryan’s health had significantly deteriorated during his time in detention. The EFCC’s response has sparked a strong reaction from Binance, which paints a much more troubling picture of Gambaryan’s condition.
EFCC’s Stance on Gambaryan’s Health Condition
During the court session, the EFCC’s lead counsel, Ekene Iheanacho, challenged the severity of Gambaryan’s health issues as portrayed by his family and legal team. Iheanacho argued that despite Gambaryan’s longstanding herniated disc condition, he had been observed walking within the detention facility, a detail used to counter claims that the executive was bedridden and critically ill. The EFCC also insisted that Gambaryan had received necessary medical attention, including visits to the hospital, while in detention.
The EFCC’s assertions came in response to a fresh bail application submitted by Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi SAN, who cited his client’s worsening health and inadequate medical care as grounds for his release. Partial medical records obtained by Binance recommend urgent surgery for Gambaryan, further fueling the debate over the true state of his health.
Binance’s Official Response: A Grim Reality
In a sharp contrast to the EFCC’s narrative, Binance has issued a statement expressing alarm over Gambaryan’s condition. The company highlighted a video from the court proceedings, showing Gambaryan in visible pain and distress as he entered the courtroom on crutches, eventually breaking down in tears. According to Binance, Gambaryan was denied the use of a wheelchair, which exacerbated his suffering and underscored the severity of his health problems.
“We are extremely distressed by the video of Tigran in court yesterday. This video is just a snapshot of Tigran’s current reality. His health is rapidly declining, and we are deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of this unjust detention,” a Binance spokesperson stated. The company’s remarks suggest that Gambaryan’s situation is far more dire than the EFCC has acknowledged, raising serious concerns about the treatment of the executive during his detention.
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Calls for Release and International Comparisons
Binance’s statement goes beyond expressing concern; it also questions the necessity of Gambaryan’s continued detention. The company argues that his detention is unnecessary for resolving any “alleged past issues” and calls on the Nigerian government to allow Gambaryan to return home. Binance points to recent resolutions with Brazil and India as examples of how such matters can be handled through constructive dialogue, in line with international business standards, rather than prolonged and potentially harmful detention.
Upcoming Bail Hearing and Court Orders
As the legal battle continues, all eyes are on the upcoming bail hearing scheduled for September 4, 2024. In the meantime, Binance has revealed that the judge presiding over the case has ordered that Gambaryan be allowed to use a wheelchair in future court appearances. This order may provide some relief to Gambaryan, but it also serves as an implicit acknowledgment of the concerns raised about his health.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Tigran Gambaryan’s detention has evolved into a significant legal and human rights issue, with Binance taking a strong stance against the treatment of its executive. As the case progresses, it remains to be seen how the Nigerian judiciary will address the conflicting narratives presented by the EFCC and Binance. The outcome of the bail hearing on September 4 could be a pivotal moment in determining Gambaryan’s future and the broader implications for international business relations in Nigeria.