An official from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed that the United States is seeking consular access to Tigran Gambaryan, a detained Binance executive and U.S citizen, held at Kuje custodial centre in Abuja.
Gambaryan, Binance’s financial crimes compliance chief, was arrested in February 2024 alongside fellow executive Anjarwalla, following an investigation linking Binance to alleged money laundering and terrorism financing.
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has set October 9 to rule on Gambaryan’s fresh bail application. Concerns regarding his well-being have emerged, with Binance CEO Richard Teng citing deteriorating health and inadequate medical care.
Additionally, Gambaryan’s family claims he has been denied access to a wheelchair.
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs source confirmed that the U.S. is focused on Gambaryan’s health, stating that while the U.S. is concerned, it is not lobbying but seeking access to ensure proper care.
Retired Ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode noted that the U.S. has the right to request consular access but emphasized that such requests should not interfere with Nigeria’s legal process.
Similarly, Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie underscored the critical role of embassies in protecting their citizens detained abroad, ensuring they are not mistreated or unjustly punished.
