One of the detained Binance executives, Tigran Gambaryan, has taken legal action against Nigerian authorities, alleging a breach of his rights.
Gambaryan, who is of American nationality, serves as the overseer of financial crime compliance at the crypto exchange platform. He lodged a lawsuit against Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Gambaryan, through his legal representative Olujoke Aliyu from Aluko and Oyebode Law Firm, filed the suit on March 18, seeking redress before Justice Inyang Ekwo. The executive sought several reliefs, including a declaration that his detention and confiscation of his passport violated sections 35(1) and (4) of Nigeria’s Constitution. He argued that his fundamental right to personal liberty had been infringed upon.
Additionally, he demanded his immediate release from custody and the return of his international travel passport. Gambaryan also requested an injunction preventing further detention related to any Binance-related investigations, alongside a public apology and reimbursement of legal costs.
Gambaryan’s lawsuit parallels a similar action initiated by Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance’s Africa regional manager, who fled lawful custody on March 22. Both executives filed separate suits (marked FHC/ABJ/CS/356/24 and FHC/ABJ/CS/355/24) against the Office of NSA and EFCC, seeking identical reliefs.
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During the recent court proceedings, T.J. Krukrubo represented both Gambaryan and Anjarwalla. Krukrubo informed the court that although the respondents had been served, they were unrepresented. Notably, Krukrubo highlighted their withdrawal of legal representation for Anjarwalla, a move possibly linked to his escape from custody.
Justice Inyang Ekwo acknowledged the withdrawal of legal representation as indicative of the applicants lacking legal counsel. Consequently, the court adjourned the matter until April 8, allowing the applicants to secure new legal representation and allowing the respondents to appear.
Regarding Gambaryan’s case, Krukrubo noted that while the processes had been served on ONSA and EFCC, the respondents still had time to respond. Seeking an adjournment, Krukrubo emphasized that the respondents’ deadline for filing applications was imminent.
Responding to this request, Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned the proceedings until April 8 for further mention, allowing both parties adequate time to prepare.
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