Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent and current executive at Binance, has now been in Nigerian custody for six months since his detention on February 26th, 2024.Â
His imprisonment has raised serious concerns regarding his deteriorating health and lack of access to proper medical care.
Reports indicate that Tigran Gambaryan, who suffers from a herniated disc in his back, is now unable to walk due to severe pain and muscle atrophy.Â
He remains bed-bound, requiring blood thinners to prevent blood clots, a situation compounded by the alleged inadequate medical attention he has received in prison.
Legal obstacles have further worsened his situation. Between July 26th and August 14th, Gambaryan’s legal team was denied access to him, hindering their ability to prepare for his trial.Â
Although they were briefly permitted a five-minute visit on August 15th, subsequent attempts to see him have been blocked. This denial of access contravenes the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to legal representation.
In addition, the U.S. Embassy has reportedly been unable to reach Gambaryan, as his inability to walk has prevented him from meeting visitors in the designated area. This development has further isolated him, raising considerations about his well-being and the conditions of his detention.
The legal proceedings against Gambaryan have been delayed, with the court going into recess on July 16th. Although an application to hear the case during the recess was approved, the next hearing is not scheduled until September 2nd.
Gambaryan’s prolonged detention has caused him to miss important family celebrations, including his son’s fifth birthday, his own 40th birthday, and his wedding anniversary. As he approaches his wife’s birthday on August 31st, his absence continues to take a toll on his family.
His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has issued a heartfelt plea for his release, highlighting the severe physical and mental toll the detention has taken on him. In her statement, she conveyed deep concern for her husband’s deteriorating health, calling for immediate medical intervention and his release before irreversible damage occurs.
Gambaryan’s case has drawn international attention, with his family and supporters urging both the U.S. and Nigerian governments to act quickly to ensure his health and rights are protected. As his next court date approaches, the pressure mounts for a solution to his ongoing detention.
