The United States (U.S.) Secretary of State, Antony J Blinken has thanked the Nigerian government on the release of its citizen, citizen Tigran Gambaryan, to enable him return and “receive the specialized medical care he requires.”
In a statement, Blinken said: “The United States thanks the Government of Nigeria for releasing U.S. citizen Tigran Gambaryan on medical grounds, allowing him to return to the United States to receive the specialized medical care he requires.
“This positive outcome demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and highlights our shared commitment to working together to advance our common interests.
“Our close law enforcement cooperation remains a cornerstone of our bilateral relationship, and the United States is committed to working closely with the Government of Nigeria to address mutual concerns and prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens.”
Meanwhile, Cryptocurrency exchange company, Binance Holding Ltd, where Gambaryan worked as its Head of Financial Crime Compliance, on Thursday announced his departed Nigeria after eight months of detention.
On Wednesday that the Federal High Court in Abuja had discharged Gambayran from money laundering charges filed by the Nigerian government through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite had discharged Gambayran on health grounds, corroborated by the EFCC.
The EFCC had informed the court that the case could not proceed on the last adjourned date due to Gambayran’s health condition, which, according to him, the state has managed effectively.
The Commission stated that a report from the Nigerian Correctional Service, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), now indicates that Gambayran’s health has deteriorated to the extent that he can hardly walk without the assistance of a wheelchair, in addition to suffering from other health issues.
However, the crypto firm in statement issued on Thursday, said that the American citizen left Nigeria to return home to his family..
“Today, American citizen Tigran Gambaryan left Nigeria to return home to his family after eight months of unlawful detention. Gambaryan was allowed to leave Kuje prison last night. His health has suffered significantly while in prison. He will now be able to finally receive the medical attention he desperately requires,” the exchange said.
Meanwhile, Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, expressed her relief at his release, adding that she didn’t expect that his release would have taken that long.
She said, “It is a huge relief that this day has finally come. The past eight months have been a living nightmare. I wish it hadn’t taken this long for his release or that his health had not declined so much, but we can now focus on healing as a family.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the U.S. government for their efforts in securing his release. I also want to thank everyone who helped us throughout this ordeal. There were moments I feared this day would never come, but Tigran’s supporters gave me hope and strength.
“The road ahead for Tigran’s recovery is going to be difficult, and I appreciate being given the time and space to focus on that. Our children cannot wait to see their dad again,” she stated.
Gambaryan and his colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were arrested and detained on February 26 following an investigation into Binance’s activities in Nigeria.
Both were charged with money laundering involving $35 million, as initiated by the anti-graft agency. Anjarwalla, however, managed to escape custody on March 22, 2024, Gambaryan was arraigned in court on April 8.