Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian government, specifically targeting the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He asserts that his detention upon arrival in Nigeria in February and the confiscation of his passport violated his fundamental human rights.
Gambaryan’s motion argues that his detention and passport confiscation contravene Nigeria’s constitution, which guarantees personal liberty. He alleges that the government is using his detention as leverage to pressure Binance.
Request for Apology and Passport Return
In his lawsuit, Gambaryan demands an apology from the government and the immediate return of his passport. He suggests that Nigeria could engage with Binance through alternative channels instead of detaining him.
Nadeem Anjarwalla, another Binance executive detained alongside Gambaryan, has also filed a similar complaint. Anjarwalla reportedly escaped detention recently. The court session regarding Gambaryan’s case has been adjourned to April 8 to allow ONSA and EFCC to respond.
Speculation and Concerns
Among Nigerian crypto enthusiasts, there are various speculations about the situation. Some express doubts about obtaining proper redress in a Nigerian court, while others question the timing of Gambaryan’s lawsuit, particularly in light of his colleague’s escape.
Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, and Anjarwalla, holding British and Kenyan citizenship, arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, on Feb. 25. The EFCC was granted 14 days to hold the Binance executives, and Binance was ordered to provide access to data on Nigerian traders. The arraignment of Binance and the executives is scheduled for April 4, with plans to involve Interpol to recapture Anjarwalla for trial.
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