Binance CEO, Richard Teng, has publicly criticized the Nigerian government for their harsh treatment of Tigran Gambaryan, an American executive of the exchange who has been detained since February. Teng emphasized the inhumane nature of Gambaryan’s situation, highlighting a viral video that captured Gambaryan struggling to walk into a courtroom. The CEO demanded that Gambaryan be allowed to return home for medical treatment and to be with his family, shedding light on the appalling conditions he is currently facing in custody.
The distressing video footage shows Gambaryan attempting to enter an Abuja courtroom on September 2nd, visibly limping and in need of assistance. Despite requesting a wheelchair, prison authorities callously denied his pleas, compelling him to drag his left leg along. The limitations placed on Gambaryan extended to not allowing him to lean on a correctional officer, ultimately leaving him to rely on a single crutch for mobility. The deprivation of basic needs such as proper medical attention and support has sparked outrage from both the public and Gambaryan himself.
The deteriorating health of Gambaryan has been a cause of concern for his family, who have consistently expressed worries about his condition while in Nigerian custody. Gambaryan’s legal team recently submitted a bail application on medical grounds, highlighting the urgent need for him to receive treatment for various health issues he has developed during his time in prison. From malaria to pneumonia, tonsillitis, and a herniated disc causing severe pain and limited mobility, Gambaryan’s health concerns are not to be taken lightly. Despite these pleas, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed the bail application, arguing that Gambaryan’s health is not as dire as claimed.
The legal battle surrounding Gambaryan’s case continues, with the judge eventually ruling in favor of allowing him to use a wheelchair. The next court appearance is scheduled for September 4th, where Gambaryan’s fate hangs in the balance. The ongoing struggles faced by the American executive in Nigerian custody shed light on broader issues of human rights violations and the need for justice and compassion to prevail. As the world watches, the pressure mounts on the Nigerian government to address the unjust treatment of Tigran Gambaryan and ensure that basic human rights are upheld for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.