Binance CEO Richard Teng did not hold back in his condemnation of the Nigerian government’s treatment of Tigran Gambaryan. The American executive, who has been held in custody since February, was shown in a viral video struggling to walk into a courtroom. Teng’s plea for Gambaryan’s freedom for medical treatment and to be with his family highlights the severity of the situation at hand.
The viral video captured the heartbreaking moment when Gambaryan, visibly in pain, limped into the Abuja courtroom. Despite his plea for a wheelchair, his request was denied by prison authorities, leaving him to drag his left leg behind him. His attempts to seek support from a correctional officer were also met with resistance, forcing him to rely on a single crutch. Gambaryan’s emotional outcry against the cruel treatment he faced showcases the unjust conditions he is enduring.
Observers pointed out that the video footage of Gambaryan struggling to walk aligns with concerns raised by his family. They have consistently expressed worries about his deteriorating health while in Nigerian custody. His legal team’s recent bail application on medical grounds sheds light on the urgent need for him to receive proper medical attention for various health issues he has developed during his time in prison.
Gambaryan’s legal team filed a new bail application citing his urgent medical needs, including conditions like malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and a herniated disc causing severe pain and immobility. Despite their efforts, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed the bail request, claiming that Gambaryan’s health was not a concern. The judge’s decision to allow Gambaryan the use of a wheelchair indicates a small victory in the ongoing battle for his rights. The case is set to continue on September 4th, highlighting the importance of continued advocacy for his release.
The treatment of Tigran Gambaryan at the hands of the Nigerian government is a clear violation of human rights. The shocking video footage and testimonies from his legal team and family paint a grim picture of the injustices he is facing. It is crucial for the international community to stand in solidarity with Gambaryan and demand justice and fair treatment for him. The upcoming court proceedings will be a critical moment in the fight for his freedom and access to proper medical care.