The indefinite jail of Binance Executive in Nigeria is not due process

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As a seasoned crypto investor and advocate for justice, I find myself deeply troubled by the ongoing ordeal of Tigran Gambaryan, the Binance executive who has been unjustly detained in Nigeria for over half a year now. This case is not just about cryptocurrencies or financial regulations; it’s about human rights, fairness, and upholding the principles that our global community stands for.

In the legal world, it’s often said that bail is the norm while jail is the exception. However, this isn’t the case for U.S. citizen and Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan who has been imprisoned in Nigeria for over half a year now (225 days). The standard procedures of “due process” within the judiciary appear to have been disregarded in his situation.

It appears that Tigran is not accused of terrorism, murder, or immoral acts. Instead, during a meeting with high-ranking Nigerian officials earlier this year, while he held the position as head of Binance Financial Crime Compliance, he was arrested and charged with compliance issues that Binance encountered in Nigeria.

Since then, Tigran has been confined to a prison cell in Nigeria, with his health worsening each day. A recent video circulating online shows him struggling to walk with a crutch, visibly suffering and exclaiming, “This is just unjust!” or “This is so unfair!” depending on the context you prefer.

Regardless of where you come from, the idea that “police can be seen as an ally” during investigations upholding fair procedures is universally applicable.

It is safe to say we are first of all human before being classified into citizens and foreigners. 

As an analyst, I find myself deeply troubled by the prolonged detention of Tigran, a situation that appears to breach fundamental human rights and principles of justice in numerous aspects. This issue has sparked intense discussion and debate within Nigeria’s community and amongst international bodies, reflecting a widespread concern over this matter.

The arrest of Tigran Gambaryan and Due Process

In February 2024, a Binance executive was apprehended and indicted for money laundering. Since that time, he has been held in Kuje prison in Nigeria, even after attempts at international intervention and demands for his release on health-related grounds. This situation has led many to doubt the integrity of due process and the legal system in Nigeria.

As a researcher delving into legal principles, I find myself continually drawn to the concept of due process – a fundamental cornerstone of our justice system that underscores fairness in legal proceedings, particularly for individuals. This principle extends beyond mere words, ensuring no person is arbitrarily deprived of their life, liberty, or property.

In Nigeria, just like in many other countries, it’s believed that an individual is considered innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law. However, the lengthy detention of the Binance executive has shaken the very pillars of fairness and impartiality upon which our justice system stands.

Deteriorating Health of Tigran in Nigerian Jail

After Gambaryan’s incarceration, concerns about his health have arisen due to reports that he has been using crutches and needed assistance, only to be turned away. Efforts have been made to secure his release since then, and on September 12, the U.S. government issued an order for his release based on humanitarian grounds. However, his wife Yuki claims that Nigerian authorities are putting Gambaryan’s life at risk. Despite the calls for action and ongoing attempts, Gambaryan’s bail application remains ungranted; instead, a decision has been postponed until October 9.

What are Nelson Mandela Rules for Prisoners?

The Nelson Mandela Rules are worth considering when it comes to prisoners’ rights, and this concerns, among many issues, the medical health of the prisoners. The negligence of these health concerns on Gambaryan could, most likely, be treated as cruelty since the offence of keeping him in prolonged detention without trial is already a cruel punishment in itself.

Conclusion

The Gambaryan case highlights the decadence of the Nigerian justice system, among many other issues such as corruption, inefficiency, and lack of transparency. This calls for legal reform in the country. There goes a saying: one good turn deserves another. The Nigerian government needs deep thought to do good and be fair with justice by doing the right thing. Maybe just then, trust can be restored. 

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2024-09-13 18:44