Binance CEO Demands Executive’s Release from Nigeria

Binance CEO Richard Teng recently asserted that the exchange is committed to securing its executive Tigran Gambaryan from the Nigerian government’s custody. During the Token2049 conference in Singapore on September 19, Teng commented on Binance’s persistent pursuit to bring Gambaryan back to the US.

Gambaryan and His Health Condition

Earlier this year, Gambaryan was arrested over allegations of Binance’s $26 billion in illegal inflows. Since his arrest in February 2024, Gambaryan has been facing severe health issues. This includes a herniated disc and instances of malaria, pneumonia, and tonsillitis. Reports revealed the Nigerian government’s ill-treatment of the Binance executive, especially after his recent trial.

Gambaryan’s family argued that the Nigerian government remained reluctant to provide adequate medical care. The Binance CEO raised his voice against the government’s “unjust” handling of the executive. He added that Gambaryan’s release is of “top priority” for the company. 

Notably, Teng based his statement on Gambaryan’s deteriorating health. He further cited, “We have a task force internally working across the clock, looking at different avenues from legal to political.”

Nigeria’s Inhumane Treatment

During his recent trial on September 2, Gambaryan was seen in a painful condition. He was limping into the courtroom with the help of crutches and was not provided with a wheelchair. Despite his desperate requests, the prison guard denied him any support, leaving him helpless.

Previously, Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, argued against the Nigerian government’s decision to continue the lawsuit despite the FIRS withdrawing the charges. She cited, “Since the FIRS charges were dropped last week and they agreed to serve those charges solely on Binance, I do not see why the EFCC cannot do the same.”

The Binance CEO questioned Nigeria’s “inhumane” treatment of Gambaryan and urged the authorities to let him free. He has repeatedly pleaded with the government to release the executive for better medical attention. In addition, he requested the US government declare Gambaryan’s arrest unlawful to expedite the release procedures.