The U.S. is urging Nigeria to release Tigran Gambaryan, a jailed Binance employee, due to humanitarian concerns. This has become a major point of tension in U.S.-Nigeria relations. U.S. officials say Gambaryan’s health issues warrant his release, while his family claims he’s denied proper medical care. Nigeria denies these claims and insists the courts will decide Gambaryan’s fate.
US Urges Nigeria to Release Jailed Binance Employee, Considers 'Wrongfully Detained' Designation
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Binance Employee’s Incarceration a Factor in US, Nigeria Relations
The United States has urged Nigerian authorities to release jailed Binance employee Tigran Gambaryan on humanitarian grounds, according to two State Department officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. The officials added that Gambaryan’s detention has become a significant factor in U.S.-Nigeria diplomatic relations.
A New York Times report states that U.S. diplomats, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have discussed Gambaryan’s situation with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the finance minister, and the attorney general. U.S. officials argue that Gambaryan’s reported health problems warrant his release.
As previously reported by Bitcoin.com News, Gambaryan contracted malaria and experienced other health issues. His family alleges he is denied proper medical care, further deteriorating his condition. They have previously called on U.S. authorities to increase efforts to secure his release.
Gambaryan’s Detention Under Discussion
Meanwhile, an unnamed Nigerian official has rejected claims that Gambaryan is denied access to proper medical care. The official also insisted that the court is the only appropriate venue to evaluate the merits of any prosecution. However, Bayo Onanuga, an adviser to Nigeria’s president, suggested that government officials are discussing the issue with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr.
“Talks are ongoing. Government will do all it can within the law, and also bearing in mind Gambaryan’s humanitarian rights,” Onanuga said.
Robert S. Litt, the jailed Binance employee’s lawyer, is quoted in the report condemning Nigerian officials for falsely accusing his client. Litt has also supported calls to designate Gambaryan as a “wrongfully detained” person. According to the report, the State Department is reportedly seeking evidence of wrongful detention.
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