An American citizen and Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, faced a setback in his bid for bail in Nigeria as the court postponed the decision until October 9. The ruling was made by Judge Emeka Nwite on September 4 after hearing arguments from both Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi, and the prosecuting counsel, Ekele Iheanacho. The bail application was opposed by the prosecuting counsel, leading to the delay in the decision.
Gambaryan’s lawyer submitted a new bail application on September 2, citing medical reasons and his deteriorating health conditions. The American citizen reportedly suffers from malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and complications from a herniated disc, which have severely impacted his ability to walk. Due to his health issues, Mordi requested that the court grant Gambaryan bail for six weeks to receive necessary medical treatment. A viral video showing Gambaryan limping into court sparked criticism from the crypto community. Critics condemned the Nigerian government’s handling of the situation, with allegations of extortion and torture.
Local media reported that Gambaryan allegedly refused prescribed medication and food during his detention, as evidenced by a medical report from the State House Annex Clinic in Abuja. The report stated that a neurosurgeon recommended medication, physiotherapy, and urgent surgery for Gambaryan’s long-standing back pain and anxiety. However, Gambaryan expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment and insisted on being transferred to Nizamiye Hospital as directed by the court. As a result, he intermittently refused the prescribed treatment and food in an attempt to secure a transfer to the preferred hospital.
The delay in the bail decision and Gambaryan’s health issues have sparked international outrage, with prominent figures in the crypto community and media condemning the Nigerian government’s actions. The situation has raised concerns about human rights violations, extortion, and the treatment of detainees in Nigeria. The delayed decision on Gambaryan’s bail application reflects a larger issue of justice and transparency in the country’s legal system.
The postponed decision on Tigran Gambaryan’s bail application in Nigeria raises questions about the treatment of detainees, access to medical care, and the fairness of the judicial process. The international response to the situation underscores the need for accountability and respect for human rights in all legal proceedings.
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