The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed it is following due process in the legal case against cryptocurrency platform Binance and one of its executives, Tigran Gambaryan, who are accused of illegal cryptocurrency trading in Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, assured that the trial is being conducted in accordance with Nigerian law.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris stated,
“Due process has been followed at every stage, and prosecutors are confident in their case based on the evidence gathered. Binance will have the chance to defend itself against these serious financial crime charges. The next hearing is set for June 20, 2024.”
The minister also confirmed that Binance has been given consular access and all necessary care according to diplomatic protocols and the rule of law.
This response from the Federal Government follows a request from a group of 12 U.S. lawmakers urging President Joe Biden to expedite the release of Tigran Gambaryan, who has been detained in Nigeria for over three months on allegations of money laundering and tax evasion.
In a letter dated June 4, the lawmakers addressed President Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, stressing the need for urgent intervention. The lawmakers argued that Gambaryan is being held unjustly, describing the allegations against him as “baseless” and a coercive tactic to pressure Binance.
“Clearly, Mr. Gambaryan is a U.S. citizen being wrongfully detained by the Government of Nigeria per 22 U.S.C. 1741 (a)(9) and (10). On behalf of Mr. Gambaryan, his family, and concerned Americans, we urgently request and strongly encourage the transfer of his case to the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs,”
The lawmakers who signed the letter include Rich McCormick, Michael T. McCaul, Barry Loudermilk, Austin Scott, and Keith Self, among others.
Meanwhile, Tigran Gambaryan did not appear in court on May 22 to face the tax evasion charges levelled against him by the Nigerian government. During the court session, prosecution counsel Moses Idehu expressed confusion about Gambaryan’s absence, noting failed attempts to contact officials at the correctional centre.
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