Court Denies Binance Executive’s Medical Bail Application
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has denied the fresh bail application for Tigran Gambaryan, the detained Binance Holdings Executive, despite pleas regarding his deteriorating health. The ruling came on Friday, dismissing the request for temporary release on medical grounds.
Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi (SAN), had argued on September 4 that his client’s health was in a “perilous” state. According to Mordi, Gambaryan needed urgent surgery for a herniated disc and was also battling severe depression and anxiety. The defense asked for a six-week bail to allow Gambaryan to receive proper medical treatment outside the prison, criticizing the care available in custody.
However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho, opposed the bail plea. He accused the defense of overstating the severity of Gambaryan’s health issues, arguing that the Nigerian Correctional Service could manage his treatment at Kuje Correctional Facility. Iheanacho cited reports from both the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital, indicating that Gambaryan had previously refused medication and treatment, despite access to top medical facilities.
“Experts have been engaged, and his health is under control,” Iheanacho said. “The Nigerian Correctional Service is managing his condition, and there has been no indication of any serious illness.”
Despite rejecting the bail, Justice Nwite directed that Gambaryan be taken to a well-equipped hospital in Abuja for treatment under security supervision, allowing a period of three days to two weeks for medical care. The trial has been adjourned until October 18, November 22, and 25, 2024.
