The Federal High Court in Abuja has delayed the trial of Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s financial crime compliance head, after his absence due to illness halted proceedings. Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, has been held in Nigerian detention since February, facing accusations of laundering over $35 million—allegations he and Binance firmly deny.
The presiding judge, Emeka Nwite, postponed the trial to October 25 to allow Gambaryan to receive medical care. A recent bail request, citing his deteriorating health and the need for surgery, was rejected, with the judge expressing confidence in the prison system’s ability to manage his medical needs.
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, has voiced concerns about his declining condition, warning that the prolonged incarceration could leave him permanently impaired. She continues to advocate for his release, emphasizing the urgent need for treatment outside prison.
The case unfolds against a backdrop of growing tension between Nigerian authorities and Binance. The exchange, which faces separate tax evasion accusations, halted all naira transactions following a regulatory crackdown targeting crypto operations accused of fueling black-market currency activities.
