US Diplomats Pressure Nigeria for Release of Detained Binance Executive

The United States government has been exerting pressure on Nigerian officials to secure the release of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in the country. According to The New York Times, US diplomats have been privately advocating for Gambaryan’s release since at least June 2024.

Gambaryan’s imprisonment has significantly strained the relationship between the United States and Nigeria. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Ambassador Richard Mills have engaged with Nigerian officials to address the issue and advocate for Gambaryan’s release.

US Ambassador Mills met with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet in September 2024 to discuss the matter further. Gambaryan’s attorneys have also implored the US State Department to label him as “wrongfully detained,” which could increase pressure on Nigeria to release him.

The United States government has emphasized the humanitarian grounds for Gambaryan’s release, citing his deteriorating health. Gambaryan’s attorneys have filed a new bail motion, arguing that he requires urgent medical attention.

Nigerian prison officials have faced criticism for their treatment of Gambaryan. Dr. Abraham Ehizojie, a medical doctor at the Kuje prison facility, was issued an arrest warrant in July for failing to produce a mandatory medical report for the detained executive.

The US government’s involvement in the case could escalate tensions between the two countries if Nigeria fails to address the issue. Rep. Rich McCormick has introduced a resolution in Congress calling for Gambaryan’s detention to be labeled as a “hostage” situation.

The ongoing detention of Tigran Gambaryan is a complex issue with significant diplomatic implications. The United States government’s efforts to secure his release highlight the importance of human rights and the protection of foreign citizens.

As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Nigeria will respond to the international pressure and take steps to release Gambaryan.