A Nigerian high court recently heard arguments regarding the release of an imprisoned Binance employee, just days after CEO Richard Teng urged U.S. intervention. The trial of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan resumed in Abuja on September 2, as Nigerian prosecutors contested his bail request and downplayed his health conditions.

Individuals present at the hearing reported that Gambaryan appeared to be in visible pain and very distressed. Previously allowed a wheelchair, Gambaryan was reportedly denied this mobility aid and forced to enter court on crutches. His lawyers filed a bail motion, requesting the judge’s permission for his release on medical grounds. Gambaryan’s legal team and his wife, Yuki Gambaryan, highlighted the poor living conditions in Kuje prison, where he has been detained for months.

Nigerian prosecutors dismissed these claims, accusing Gambaryan of refusing treatment. The court was adjourned until September 2, with the bail hearing expected to continue.

Nigerian authorities have detained Gambaryan for over six months since his arrival in the country in February. Two Binance staffers, Gambaryan, a former IRS agent, and Nadeem Anjarwalla, were arrested on allegations of money laundering and tax evasion. While Anjarwalla escaped detention, stricter measures were imposed on Gambaryan, who now suffers from Pneumonia, Malaria, and Tonsillitis, and requires surgery.

Binance CEO Richard Teng has called on U.S. authorities to establish diplomatic relations with Nigeria’s government to secure Gambaryan’s release. Teng emphasized that Gambaryan does not hold decision-making powers at Binance and should not be held accountable for accusations against the firm.

Pro-crypto policymaker Representative French Hill also urged the White House to intervene in Gambaryan’s case. After visiting the jailed executive alongside fellow legislator Chrissy Houlahan in June, Rep. Hill described the situation as a Nigerian political dispute and advocated for his freedom.

Gambaryan’s wife has expressed concerns about the long-term impact of his imprisonment. In a statement shared on September 2, she mentioned that Gambaryan can barely walk and was denied legal counsel. Nigerian prosecutors, however, claimed his condition was not critical.

I am deeply concerned about recent statements from Nigerian authorities denying Tigran’s health issues. The truth is that the prison has withheld his medical records for months, and even the partial records they finally released today say that Tigran needs surgery. They cannot keep playing games with my husband’s life like this. This entire situation is inhumane and degrading, and I am fed up. There must be consequences for this disregard of law and human rights.

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