Binance CEO Calls for US Intervention Before Nigerian Trial

As a researcher with years of experience navigating the complexities of global finance and regulatory landscapes, I find myself deeply troubled by the ongoing ordeal of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria. Having closely followed the evolution of Binance and its efforts to collaborate with regulators worldwide, it is disheartening to see such a dedicated professional facing prolonged detention under questionable circumstances.


On Tuesday, Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, emphasized the company’s track record of effectively addressing global regulatory challenges without impacting its workforce. This statement was made as the well-being of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan remains a matter of concern, as he has been in detention in Nigeria for almost half a year.

Gambaryan, who serves as head of financial crime compliance at Binance, along with Nadeem Anjarwalla, the exchange’s regional chief for Africa, were taken into custody on February 28, following instructions from Nigeria’s national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleged that they had been operating without a valid license, which may have contributed to their ongoing detention.

Approaching Gambaryan’s trial on September 2, Teng underlined Binance’s dedication to addressing regulatory issues by working together, pointing out recent agreements with authorities in the U.S., Thailand, Brazil, and India as examples. Teng specifically highlighted that these resolutions were reached without any negative impact on employees, contrasting the ongoing situation in Nigeria.

Beyond tackling regulatory matters, Teng also dismissed allegations that Binance’s operations were the root cause of Nigeria’s economic woes, specifically the dramatic drop in the Naira’s worth. Instead, he pinned the currency’s devaluation on broader economic factors and government decisions, most notably the abandonment of the Naira’s currency tie in June 2023, which resulted in a significant decrease in its value.

As a researcher, I’m expressing my concern and advocacy regarding the situation of Gambaryan. Just like Binance CEO, I am appealing to international authorities to intervene on humanitarian grounds, focusing on securing Gambaryan’s release. Specifically, I encourage the U.S. government to label him as an “unlawfully detained” citizen, a move that could potentially exert political pressure for his swift liberation.

Yuki Gambaryan disclosed her husband’s critical state, mentioning that he is battling malaria, pneumonia, and intense psychological strain. She underscored the gravity of his predicament, pleading for swift medical attention to avert permanent harm.

Over the last six months, the Gambaryan family has been living through a harrowing ordeal, repeatedly reaching out to governments, news outlets, and the general public. Yuki Gambaryan’s heartfelt entreaty serves as a powerful reminder of the immediate need for humanitarian action to address this distressing situation.

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2024-08-27 16:20