By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
U.S. Lawmakers demand release of Binance chief.
U.S. lawmakers French Hill and Chrissy Houlahan are urging Nigeria to release Tigran Gambaryan, an executive of Binance, who is detained on charges including tax evasion and financial crimes. Gambaryan’s health has reportedly deteriorated significantly in Kuje prison, where he is suffering from malaria and double pneumonia without adequate medical care.
Hill and Houlahan visited Gambaryan at Kuje prison and expressed shock at the harsh conditions he faces. They emphasized the urgent need for his release, echoing pleas from his wife, Yuki Gambaryan, and previous calls from fellow U.S. congressmen to secure his return to the United States.
In a statement, Hill stressed the humanitarian aspect of the situation, noting that despite Nigeria dropping tax evasion charges, Gambaryan remains detained under charges related to money laundering, which Hill believes are unjust.
Houlahan echoed Hill’s sentiments, highlighting the poor health and stressful conditions Gambaryan is enduring. She called on the U.S. embassy to intervene forcefully to ensure his safe return home.
Previously, a bipartisan group of U.S. congressmen had petitioned President Joe Biden to pressure Nigeria for Gambaryan’s release, underscoring ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Binance chief, U.S. lawmakers
U.S. Lawmakers demand release of Binance chief