Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in Nigeria on money laundering charges, made a fresh bail request on medical grounds during his court appearance on September 2. His legal team cited his deteriorating health in prison as the basis for the application. They reported that his condition has worsened to the point where they cannot meet with him to prepare adequately for the trial.
Gambaryan’s health issues include a herniated disc, bouts of pneumonia, malaria, and tonsillitis. Appearing in court with crutches, he informed the judge that prison officials had denied him a wheelchair. Gambaryan also pleaded with the judge, stating that he is not receiving proper medical care in prison and is being denied basic rights, including access to legal counsel and embassy representatives.
The judge has now ordered that Gambaryan be allowed to use a wheelchair, with the case set to continue on September 4. It is important to note that the court had previously denied Gambaryan’s first bail request in May. The Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) countered the claims made by Gambaryan and his legal team, stating that his health issues are “not as serious” as presented. The EFCC reportedly noted that Gambaryan has had a herniated disc for more than a decade.
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, expressed deep concern over the Nigerian authorities’ statements dismissing her husband’s health problems. She emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that “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.”
Overall, the case of Tigran Gambaryan raises serious human rights concerns regarding the treatment of detainees in Nigerian prisons. The conflicting reports about his health condition highlight the need for independent medical assessments and transparent communication between the authorities, the detainee, and his legal representatives. The court’s decision to allow Gambaryan the use of a wheelchair is a positive step, but more actions need to be taken to ensure that his rights are respected and that he receives appropriate medical care while awaiting trial.