- The lawsuit targets Nigeria’s security adviser and anti-graft agency for allegedly violating fundamental human rights.
- Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla, executives at Binance, were detained upon arrival in Nigeria on February 26.
Binance’s executives have launched a legal battle against Nigerian authorities. Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla found themselves entangled in a controversy after Nigeria banned several cryptocurrency trading websites.
The duo, hailing from diverse backgrounds, flew to Nigeria only to face detainment upon arrival on February 26. Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, and Nadeem Anjarwalla, the regional manager for Africa, took their fight to the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to a report by a local media publication, the executives accused the National Security Adviser’s office and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of violating their fundamental human rights. The executives demanded their release, the return of their passports, and a public apology for their detainment.
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Legal Proceedings
During a hearing before Judge Iyang Ekwo, Gambaryan argued that his detention and passport seizure violated his liberty as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution.
The executives maintained their innocence, claiming they were not informed of any offenses committed. The judge adjourned the hearing to April 8, awaiting representation from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the EFCC.
The detention of Binance executives occurred amidst Nigeria’s crackdown on cryptocurrency trading platforms, which emerged as alternatives amidst chronic dollar shortages. Nigerian authorities charged Gambaryan and Anjarwalla, along with the company, with tax evasion. However, Anjarwalla fled the country, facing the possibility of an international arrest warrant.
Despite the absence of representation from the Nigerian authorities during the hearing, the executives’ legal battle persists. With the next court date set for April 8, the outcome remains uncertain.
