Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja has set October 9, 2024, as the date to rule on the fresh bail application submitted by Tigran Gambaryan.
Gambaryan, a detained Binance executive facing $35.4 million money laundering charges. The charges were brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
During the court session on Wednesday, Gambaryan’s counsel, Mark Mordi, argued that his client’s health condition was critical. He requested the court grant Gambaryan bail for six weeks to seek proper medical treatment outside the prison, as he was allegedly not receiving adequate care while in detention.
“We plead that you admit the second defendant to bail on liberal terms,” Mordi said, adding that an affidavit was filed in support of the application by one Sunday Ameh.
However, EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, opposed the bail request, arguing that Gambaryan could receive necessary medical treatment while detained at the Kuje correctional facility.
“It’s not sufficient to say because he is sick, he has to show compelling reasons that he cannot be taken care of in the facility,” Iheanacho contended, noting that a medical report from the State House Clinic indicated that Gambaryan had refused medication and treatment.
After hearing both arguments, Justice Nwite directed the correctional facility to ensure Gambaryan has unrestricted access to medical experts and facilities whenever required. The court then adjourned the case until October 9 for a ruling on the bail application.
