Binance CEO Richard Teng has taken a stand against the Nigerian government for their mistreatment of Tigran Gambaryan, an American executive who has been detained since February. Teng expressed his outrage in a public statement, calling for an end to the inhumane treatment of Gambaryan and demanding that he be allowed to return home for medical treatment and to be reunited with his family.
A disturbing viral video surfaced, showing Gambaryan struggling to walk into a courtroom in Abuja on September 2. Despite his obvious need for assistance, his request for a wheelchair was denied by prison authorities, forcing him to drag his left leg behind him as he entered the courtroom. Even attempts to lean on a correctional officer for support were rejected, leaving Gambaryan to rely on a single crutch. The disregard for his well-being was evident as Gambaryan expressed his frustration, questioning why he was being subjected to such treatment when he is an innocent individual in need of medical care.
Family’s Concerns Validated
The video footage aligns with concerns raised by Gambaryan’s family, who have been vocal about his declining health while in Nigerian custody. Gambaryan’s legal team took action by filing a bail application on medical grounds, citing his urgent need for treatment for various health issues he has developed in prison. These conditions include malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and a herniated disc that has left him in excruciating pain and severely limited his mobility. Despite the serious nature of his health concerns, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria opposed the bail application, disputing the severity of Gambaryan’s health condition.
In response to the mounting pressure, the judge overseeing the case ruled that Gambaryan should be allowed to use a wheelchair moving forward. The legal proceedings are ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for September 4. As the case unfolds, the spotlight remains on the Nigerian government’s actions and the treatment of detainees like Gambaryan, highlighting the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring that individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their legal status.
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