Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja denied a new bail application on Friday for Tigran Gambaryan, a detained executive of Binance Holdings.
Gambaryan’s attorney, Mark Mordi (SAN), had previously argued on September 4 that his client’s health was “perilous.” He stated that Gambaryan needed surgery for a herniated disc and psychiatric care for depression and anxiety. Mordi requested a six-week bail for Gambaryan to receive adequate medical treatment outside of prison, citing insufficient care while in custody.
In response, Ekele Iheanacho, representing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, disputed the defense’s assertions, claiming they exaggerated the severity of Gambaryan’s condition. He argued that the defendant could receive medical treatment while incarcerated at Kuje Correctional Facility and maintained that his health issues did not warrant bail.
Iheanacho pointed out that Gambaryan had been taken to reputable medical facilities, including the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital. A medical report from the State House Clinic indicated that Gambaryan had refused medication and treatment, while reports from Nizamiye Hospital confirmed he had received comprehensive care without any signs of health deterioration.
He emphasized that it had not been proven that Gambaryan’s health condition could not be managed by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), stating, “Experts have been engaged, and the NCS is taking care of him. The results so far show no serious illness. Complaints have been sent to the National Security Adviser.”
In his ruling on the medical bail motion, Justice Nwite rejected the request, noting that “renowned Nigerian medical experts are already managing the second defendant’s health.” However, he instructed the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to a standard hospital in Abuja for treatment, under security supervision, for a period ranging from three days to two weeks.
The case is set to continue on October 18, 2024, and again on November 22 and 25, 2024, for further proceedings.
Gambaryan faces money laundering charges totaling $35.4 million brought against him by the EFCC.
