The bail application for Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan has hit another roadblock as a Nigerian court has decided to postpone the decision until October 9. This delay comes after Judge Emeka Nwite heard arguments from both Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi, and the prosecuting counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, who opposed the bail request.
Gambaryan’s lawyer submitted a new bail application on September 2, citing medical reasons and the worsening health conditions of his client. The American citizen reportedly suffers from a myriad of health issues including malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and complications from a herniated disc, all of which have severely impacted his ability to walk. Mordi requested that the court grant Gambaryan bail for six weeks to seek the necessary medical treatment.
A viral video showing Gambaryan limping into court has sparked outrage within the crypto community, with many critics condemning the Nigerian government’s handling of the situation. Jeff Roberts, crypto editor at Fortune Magazine, expressed his disdain, stating that the government’s actions were tantamount to hostage-taking and extortion of Binance for exorbitant amounts of money.
Local media outlets have reported that Gambaryan allegedly refused prescribed medications and food during his detention, as indicated by a medical report from the State House Annex Clinic in Abuja. Despite recommendations for medication, physiotherapy, and urgent surgery, Gambaryan expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment and insisted on being transferred to Nizamiye Hospital. This led to intermittent refusals of treatment and food in an attempt to secure a transfer to the preferred medical facility.
As the legal battle over Gambaryan’s bail application continues to unfold, his deteriorating health conditions remain a major point of concern. The postponement of the court decision has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his future. The ongoing saga highlights the intersection of legal limbo and health crisis, leaving many questioning the handling of Gambaryan’s case and the broader implications for international executives facing legal challenges abroad.