Binance Executives Take on Nigerian Authorities: Are Rights Violations at Play?

Detained Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan has initiated legal action against two Nigerian agencies, alleging infringement of his fundamental human rights.

Gambaryan Files Suit Against NSA and EFCC, Anjarwalla Seeks Legal Remedy

Gambaryan filed the lawsuit against the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on March 18, as reported by local media outlet Premium Times.

Simultaneously, Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance's regional manager for Africa, lodged an individual lawsuit for rights enforcement with Justice Ekwo. Anjarwalla, who evaded lawful detention on March 22, pursues similar legal remedies to Gambaryan.

Binance did not respond to Cryptonews' request for comment by the time of press.

Nigeria's Legal Suit Against Binance: Tax Evasion and Escalating Cryptocurrency Exchange Regulation

The lawsuits stem from the February detention of both executives and the confiscation of their passports amidst a broader crackdown on crypto exchanges in Nigeria. Authorities alleged Binance's non-compliance with local tax regulations and hindrance of tax collection from users.

The crackdown correlates with the frequent depreciation of the Nigerian Naira against the US dollar.

American Citizen Gambaryan Files Suit Against Nigerian Government for Detention and Passport Confiscation Violating Constitutional Rights

Gambaryan, a US citizen, contends that his detention and passport confiscation violate his right to personal liberty as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. He demands immediate release, passport return, a permanent court order against future detainment related to Binance, a public apology, and compensation for incurred legal expenses.

In an affidavit, Gambaryan clarified his visit to Nigeria as a Binance representative on February 26, solely for a meeting requested by authorities, during which he committed no offense and received no prior notification of wrongdoing.

During Thursday's hearing, Nigerian lawyer TJ Krukrubo appeared for both executives, highlighting their lack of official legal representation. The court postponed the case until April 8 to allow applicants to secure legal counsel and provide respondents with additional preparation time.