Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent and a key executive at cryptocurrency exchange Binance, has now spent six months in Nigerian detention, with his health rapidly deteriorating due to what his lawyers describe as a systematic denial of medical care. According to reports, Gambaryan, who is responsible for financial crime compliance at Binance, was arrested in February 2024 as part of Nigeria's tax evasion and money laundering investigation into the exchange.
Health Crisis Behind Bars
Lawyers for Gambaryan revealed that he has developed a severe herniated disc in his spine, a condition that has progressed to the point where he can no longer walk. They allege that prison authorities have consistently refused to arrange a consultation with a spine specialist, despite repeated requests. The lack of treatment has caused nerve compression, leading to partial paralysis in his legs. As of late August, Gambaryan requires assistance from other inmates to move around the facility.
His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has taken to social media to issue urgent public appeals, describing her husband's condition as “excruciating” and warning that without immediate medical intervention, he risks permanent damage. “He is in pain every second. Our family is being torn apart,” she wrote in a recent statement.
Lawyer Access Blocked; U.S. Embassy Unable to Visit
Adding to the legal and humanitarian concerns, Gambaryan's legal team stated that they were barred from visiting him from July 26 to August 14 — a period of 20 days. This denial of access, they argue, violates Nigerian law that guarantees detainees the right to meet with their counsel and impeded trial preparations. The lawyers have filed a complaint with the court, demanding an explanation from prison management.
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has also faced obstacles. Because Gambaryan cannot walk to the visitor area, embassy officials have been unable to meet with him in person. The embassy has confirmed it is in communication with the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to resolve the issue, but no breakthrough has been reported yet.
Court Hearing Scheduled; Family Pleads for Urgent Release
Nigeria's Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled the next hearing for September 2. At that session, the judge is expected to hear arguments on bail and a potential medical transfer. Meanwhile, Yuki Gambaryan is appealing to the U.S. government, human rights organizations, and the international community to intervene and secure her husband’s release before his health deteriorates irreversibly. “Every day of delay brings him closer to permanent harm. He needs to be evacuated for proper treatment now,” she said.
The case has sparked broader discussions within the cryptocurrency industry about the risks faced by compliance professionals operating in jurisdictions with volatile regulatory environments. Binance has stated that it continues to provide legal support for Gambaryan and calls on Nigerian authorities to respect his fundamental rights. The Nigerian Ministry of Justice and the prison services have not issued any official statement regarding the allegations of medical neglect.