In a dramatic turn of events, Tigran Gambaryan, a detained Binance executive, has taken legal action against key Nigerian authorities, alleging violations of his fundamental rights. Represented by legal counsel from Aluko and Oyebode Law Firm, Gambaryan approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the enforcement of his rights amidst his detention by Nigerian authorities. Additionally, Nadeem Anjarwalla, the Binance Africa regional manager who escaped from custody on March 22, has filed a separate right enforcement suit before Justice Iyang Ekwo of the same Federal High Court in Abuja.
The lawsuits, marked as FHC/ABJ/CS/356/24 and FHC/ABJ/CS/355/24 respectively, target the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as the 1st and 2nd respondents. Both Gambaryan and Anjarwalla allege violations of their rights by the Nigerian authorities, specifically the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, and the EFCC, during their detention and legal proceedings.
Gambaryan’s application contends that his detention and the seizure of his international travel passport constitute infringements on constitutional provisions safeguarding personal liberty. Among the reliefs sought by Gambaryan are his immediate release from custody, the return of his passport, an injunction against further detention related to any Binance-related investigations, and a public apology from the respondents.
In a statement supporting his suit, Gambaryan, an American citizen, explained that he visited Nigeria on February 26, 2024, alongside Anjarwalla as a representative of Binance, to discuss issues relating to the company in Nigeria. He emphasized that he and his colleague attended the meeting with the ONSA and EFCC dutifully, denying any commission of offenses during the meeting or at any other time in Nigeria.
The legal proceedings encountered a setback during a recent court appearance when Gambaryan’s legal representation withdrew, prompting an adjournment until April 8 to allow for new representation and for the respondents to prepare their response. Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter until April 8, 2024, for further mention, indicating that the respondent’s time to file their applications would expire the following week Thursday.
The developments in Gambaryan’s legal battle underscore the complexities and challenges surrounding his detention and the legal proceedings initiated against him by Nigerian authorities. The allegations of rights violations raise questions about the adherence to due process and the rule of law in handling cases involving individuals accused of involvement in criminal activities.
As Gambaryan’s case unfolds, it highlights the importance of upholding fundamental rights and ensuring transparency and accountability in legal proceedings. The outcome of the legal action initiated by Gambaryan and Anjarwalla against the Nigerian authorities will have significant implications for their rights and the broader legal landscape in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the proceedings shed light on the role of international companies and their representatives in navigating legal challenges in foreign jurisdictions. Binance, a global cryptocurrency exchange, is closely monitoring the situation and providing support to its executives as they seek justice and fair treatment under the law.
In conclusion, the legal action initiated by Gambaryan and Anjarwalla against Nigerian authorities marks a critical juncture in their quest for justice and rights protection. As the legal proceedings progress, all stakeholders, including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations, must ensure adherence to legal standards and respect for fundamental rights to uphold the integrity of the legal system.
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