Michaela
Binance executive Tigran Gambarуan has accepted The Digital Chamber’s first-ever Hero Award at the DC Blockchain Summit in Washington, D.C., where he has shared details about his detention in Nigeria and the events leading to his release.
At the summit — one of his first public appearances since his detention — Binance’s head of financial crime compliance told the audience that the Nigerian government had effectively held him hostage. Gambaryan suggested that the charges brought against him were merely a pretext to “get something” from Binance.
“It was around the time the [United Nations] General Assembly in 2024 happened is when that pressure really ramped up against the Nigerian government, and it realized that I was more of a liability,” said Gambaryan.
“Before that, they kinda saw me as an asset they could use to get their billions out of Binance,” he added. Gambaryan told the crowd that he hoped that those responsible for his detention in Nigeria would one day face justice.
Representative Warren Davidson presented the award to Tigran Gambaryan, emphasizing the significant personal sacrifices he has endured in connection with the crypto industry.
Related: Kusama Reveals Details Of New AI Product in Recent Livestream
Gambaryan and his colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla were detained by Nigerian authorities in February 2024 after arriving in the country for discussions regarding Binance’s operations. Gambaryan faced charges related to money laundering and tax violations, as officials investigated alleged irregularities in financial transactions linked to the exchange’s Nigerian platform.
While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody, Gambaryan remained detained and faced serious health issues, including malaria, double pneumonia, and a herniated disc that affected his mobility. During a court hearing in September 2024, Gambaryan visibly struggled to walk.
“I’m not okay,” he stated, frustrated over being denied the use of a wheelchair. Calling the situation a “show,” he insisted on his innocence, expressing anger over how he was treated.
Related: Shiba Inu Secures Viсtory on CoinGecko with New Page Update
In March 2024, Gambaryan filed a lawsuit against Nigeria’s National Security Adviser and the Economic аnd Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging violations of his fundamental rights. His legal team argues that he was wrongfully detained after being invited to Nigeria for a meeting, claiming the charges against him were baseless.
Following repeated appeals from lawmakers and government officials, along with prolonged court delays, Gambaryan was released from his detention in Nigeria and returned to the United States on October 23.
Read More
- Binance Employee Suspended for Insider Trading
- Binance to Delist USDT Trading Pairs in EEA, Keeps Deposits/Withdrawals Open
- SEC and Binance Request 60-Day Pause in Legal Battle Over Crypto Rules
MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
