Detained Binance Executive’s Wife Pens Emotional Letter to Nigerian Government

The wife of detained Binance Holdings Limited executive, Tigran Gambaryan, has written a heartfelt appeal to the Nigerian government, requesting the unconditional release of her husband.

Gambaryan, an American citizen, is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria for alleged money laundering involving the cryptocurrency firm.

Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance’s Regional Manager for East and West Africa, were detained on February 26, 2024, on the order of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.

Anjarwalla allegedly escaped from custody and fled the country on March 22, with efforts now underway in collaboration with Interpol to repatriate him.

In her letter, Yuki Gambaryan pleads with the Nigerian government to allow her husband to return home to her and their children.

She describes Tigran as a loving father and husband, emphasizing his respect for Nigeria and its people.

She also highlights his role in Binance as an employee focused on investigating and pursuing criminal activity on the platform, rather than having any managerial authority over the company’s corporate decisions or policies.

The case has attracted attention, as Tigran Gambaryan is globally recognized for his significant contributions to solving crimes involving cryptocurrencies.

His continued detention has not only affected his family but has also raised concerns among his peers and colleagues in Nigeria and around the world.

The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to rule on April 8 regarding an objection raised by Gambaryan against his arraignment.

The court will decide on the validity of the EFCC’s move to charge him alongside the other defendants, despite Binance, listed as the first defendant in the charge, not being served.

As the legal proceedings continue, the emotional appeal from Yuki Gambaryan highlights the personal and human toll of this case, with her family and Tigran’s aging mother facing significant distress due to his detention.

The outcome of the case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for Tigran Gambaryan, his family, and the broader cryptocurrency industry in Nigeria and beyond.