REGULATION

Binance executive's detention in Nigeria escalates, 18 U.S. attorneys general jointly urge Biden administration

share
Binance executive

Executive Tigran Gambaryan of Binance was previously detained by the Nigerian government on suspicion of money laundering and tax evasion, leading to deteriorating health conditions due to inadequate medical care. Recently, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella, along with 17 other state attorneys general, wrote to President Biden and Secretary of State Blinken, designating Gambaryan as a hostage under the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act, urging for diplomatic pressure to ensure Gambaryan's release.

Joint Petition

Call for Biden Administration's Intervention

Formella stated that Gambaryan was illegally detained in Nigeria, where the government not only violated his human rights but also endangered his life, calling for prompt action from the Biden administration. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom had previously officially recognized Gambaryan as a "U.S. citizen unlawfully detained by a foreign government" and urged the Nigerian government to uphold the constitutional protections of all political prisoners' legal rights and basic human rights. The Commission also mentioned that they are actively engaging with the Nigerian government, but have not received any response so far.

Applying Diplomatic Pressure to Ensure Gambaryan's Safe Return

Furthermore, Attorney General Formella, along with 17 other state attorneys general, urged the Biden administration to classify Gambaryan as a "hostage" under the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-taking Accountability Act, indicating an escalation of the situation. Formella appealed to the Biden administration to exert diplomatic pressure on Nigeria and ensure his safe return to prevent any tragedy from occurring.

Note: The Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-taking Accountability Act aims to strengthen U.S. government assistance and rescue efforts for American citizens held hostage by foreign governments or non-state actors.