U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed gratitude to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for securing the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. During a phone call on October 29, the White House reported Biden’s appreciation for Tinubu’s actions, which freed Gambaryan on humanitarian grounds after eight months of detention. Biden also acknowledged Nigeria’s recent strides in combating crypto-related crimes through the newly established Bilateral Liaison Group on Illicit Finance.
Gambaryan, detained on criminal charges since early this year, reportedly faced severe health complications during his custody in Nigeria. During his imprisonment, his health deteriorated, with a ruptured disc, pneumonia, malaria, and tonsillitis. Even though the tax evasion charges have since been withdrawn in June this year, Gambaryan stayed in custody until Nigerian authorities set him free. A Binance spokesperson said he left Nigeria within 24 hours of release to seek urgent medical attention.
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Detention Conditions and Community Response
Reports from Gambaryan’s detention period indicate troubling treatment, sparking widespread criticism. Gambaryan has recently commented in court, and it was claimed he required crutches to stand up due to ill health. The witnesses also testified that despite his entreaties, prison authorities never provided him a wheelchair, and he was moving almost entirely, only with some assistance. These factors were compounded by the increasing public outcry for his release from prison.
After several failed attempts to get his freedom, Nigerian officials agreed to set free Gambaryan last week. As informed by humanitarian reasons, the decision received appreciation from President Biden’s side, which the White House echoed. White House reported: “President Biden expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for helping to free an American citizen and a former policeman, Tigran Gambaryan, on a humanitarian basis last week.”
During their conversation, Biden recognized Nigeria’s recent partnership with the United States to combat crypto-related threats. On October 23, the two nations launched the Bilateral Liaison Group on Illicit Finance and Cryptocurrencies. The initiative demonstrates both countries’ commitment to tackling the financial and cybersecurity challenges associated with cryptocurrency and illicit finance.
Conclusion
Biden’s remarks highlight U.S. appreciation for Nigeria’s humanitarian efforts and the nation’s commitment to addressing crypto-related crimes. The Gambaryan release marks a significant development in U.S.-Nigeria collaboration.
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