The Nigerian government is facing mounting pressure from the United States following the detention of Tigran Gambaryan, a US citizen and head of financial crime compliance at cryptocurrency exchange Binance. Gambaryan was arrested in April during a visit to Nigeria to discuss Binance’s compliance with local regulations.
Nigerian authorities have accused Gambaryan of money laundering and other financial crimes. However, these charges have been met with scepticism by the United States.
In a recent letter to President Biden, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, and Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Roger D. Carstens, 16 US lawmakers, led by Congressman Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, accused Nigeria of “taking a Binance executive hostage.”
The letter alleges that Gambaryan’s initial meetings with Nigerian officials were professional but later turned “increasingly hostile,” leading to his arrest.
The US lawmakers believe the charges are fabricated and that Gambaryan is being wrongfully detained. They have called for his immediate release.
“Mr Gambaryan’s health and well-being are in danger, and we fear for his life. Immediate action is essential to ensure his safety and preservice his life. We must act swiftly before it is too late,” the letter stated.
The Nigerian government has denied these accusations. Information Minister Mohammed Idris has refuted the claim that Gambaryan is being unlawfully detained. He maintains that Gambaryan is being held lawfully and due process is being followed.
“At all stages, due process has been followed, and prosecutors are confident of their case, based on the facts and evidence gathered. Binance will have every opportunity to defend itself in court against these severe charges of financial crimes against the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The next hearing is on June 20, 2024,” Idris said.
The Minister emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to fighting financial crime and ensuring cryptocurrency exchanges operating within the country comply with regulations.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
Latest posts by By Ezinwanne Onwuka (Senior Reporter) (see all)
previous
Kaduna State House Of Assembly Probes El-Rufa’i Over Alleged N423bn Fraud
next