US Congress Members Urge Action on Binance Executive Held Hostage in Nigeria

• The U.S. Congress is addressing an urgent international incident involving Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan.
• Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, is reportedly being detained under concerning conditions by the Nigerian government.
• Recent statements from Congress members have amplified calls for his immediate release, highlighting the severity of the situation.

U.S. Congress Members Demand Immediate Release of Binance Executive Detained in Nigeria

Resolution Introduced to Classify Detention as Hostage Situation

U.S. Representatives Rich McCormick and French Hill have taken a firm stance on the issue, introducing a resolution to the House Foreign Affairs Committee. This resolution urges the U.S. government to classify Tigran Gambaryan’s detention by the Nigerian authorities as a hostage situation.

Calls for Immediate Action

The resolution puts forth a strong demand for the immediate release of Gambaryan, stressing that his continued detention poses a serious risk to his health and safety. Gambaryan, being detained in Kuje Prison, has reportedly been experiencing deteriorating health, which has further alarmed U.S. officials.

Background of the Case

Gambaryan, who previously served as an agent with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and is currently the Head of Financial Crimes Compliance at Binance, was detained in Nigeria alongside another Binance executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, in February. While Anjarwalla escaped detention in March, Gambaryan remains held on allegations of money laundering and tax evasion.

Impact on U.S.-Nigeria Relations

The arrests stem from accusations by Nigerian authorities against Binance for purported involvement in money laundering and tax breaches. Although Nigerian tax authorities dropped tax evasion charges last month, the money laundering allegations persist, complicating Gambaryan’s situation. This ongoing detention holds significant implications for diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Nigeria, particularly as U.S. lawmakers express mounting concern over Gambaryan’s well-being.

Potential Delays in Legal Resolution

Congress members have voiced concerns about the potential duration of Gambaryan’s detention. If his case is not resolved by mid-July, the Nigerian courts’ recess from mid-July to September could prolong his custody, heightening the strain on his health and further exacerbating diplomatic tensions.

Conclusion

As the U.S. Congress pushes for decisive action, the resolution reflects a critical juncture in international diplomatic relations and corporate accountability. The outcome of this situation could set a significant precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, emphasizing the importance of lawful conduct and the protection of U.S. citizens abroad.