Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, on Thursday left Nigeria after spending eight months in detention.
The Bola Tinubu-led administration had abruptly withdrawn charges against Gambaryan on health grounds and following diplomatic pressure.
Initial charges were brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
While dropping the charges in court on Wednesday, the EFCC prosecutor stated: “The government has reviewed the case and, taking into consideration that the second defendant (Mr Gambaryan) is an employee of the first defendant (Binance Holdings Limited), whose status in the matter has more impact than the second defendant’s, and also taking into consideration some critical international and diplomatic reasons, the state seeks to discontinue the case against the second defendant.”
Tigran was allowed to leave Kuje prison last night.
In a statement to journalists on behalf of the Binance executive’s family, it was disclosed that Tigran, a US citizen, left Nigeria to return to his family.
Tigran’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, stated: “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 US 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 us being given the time and space to focus on that. Our children cannot wait to see their dad again.”
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