Detained Binance Executive’s Health Deteriorates in Nigerian Prison, Family Calls for Release

Tigran Gambaryan, the Binance executive detained in Nigeria since February 2024, is facing a rapidly deteriorating health condition while being held in Kuje prison near Abuja, according to recent statements from his family and legal team.

Gambaryan, who serves as Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, was arrested on charges of money laundering, which both he and Binance deny. His case has drawn international attention, particularly from U.S. lawmakers who have urged for his release.

According to the family’s statement, Gambaryan is suffering from multiple serious health issues. He has a herniated disc in his back that requires specialized surgery, and has experienced recurrent throat infections and pneumonia during his detention. The family reports that he now requires surgery to remove his tonsils and is mostly bedridden, necessitating blood thinners to prevent potentially fatal blood clots.

Yuki Gambaryan, Tigran’s wife, expressed deep concern about her husband’s condition: “My once fit and healthy husband, who loves working out, is now wheelchair-bound due to a treatable condition that has not been properly addressed.”

Adding to the family’s distress, Gambaryan’s legal team has reportedly been denied access to their client since July 26, despite court orders to allow such visits. This restriction appears to contravene both the Nigerian constitution and prison regulations, which guarantee prisoners the right to communicate with their legal advisers.

The case has prompted intervention from U.S. lawmakers. Representatives French Hill and Chrissy Houlahan visited Gambaryan in June, reporting that he was suffering from malaria and double pneumonia. They called for his immediate humanitarian release and return to the United States.

Gambaryan’s next court hearing is scheduled for October 11, 2024, following a judicial recess. His lawyers have filed a request for the case to be heard during the recess period due to the urgency of his health situation.

Binance has stated its commitment to working with the Nigerian government to resolve the situation. However, the cryptocurrency exchange faced broader issues in Nigeria, having suspended transactions in the local currency in March following a country-wide crackdown on crypto exchanges.

As Gambaryan’s detention extends beyond 150 days, his family continues to appeal for his release on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing the need for urgent medical treatment and the impact of his absence on his young children.