On Friday, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja refuse the fresh bail application of Tigran Gambaryan, the detained Binance Holdings Executive. Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi (SAN), had argued that his client’s health dey in serious danger and he need surgery for herniated disc and psychiatric care for depression and anxiety.
Mordi ask for six-week bail so Gambaryan can seek proper medical attention outside prison, saying the care in custody no dey enough. But the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho, oppose the defence’s claims, saying they exaggerate the severity of Gambaryan’s condition. Iheanacho claim say Gambaryan can receive treatment while detained at Kuje Correctional Facility and that his health no serious enough to warrant bail.
Iheanacho mention say Gambaryan don go top medical institutions like State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital, and that medical report from State House Clinic show say he refuse medication and treatment. He also say reports from Nizamiye Hospital show comprehensive care and no health deterioration.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite reject the request for bail on medical grounds, noting that “renowned Nigerian medical experts are already managing the second defendant’s health.” However, he order the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to a standard hospital in Abuja for treatment for three days to two weeks under security supervision.
The matter was adjourned till October 18, 2024, and November 22 and 25, 2024, for the continuation of trial. Gambaryan dey face $35.4 million in money laundering charges brought against him by the EFCC.
