The Nigerian government has refuted allegations regarding the poor prison conditions and medical care of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that Gambaryan is receiving adequate medical treatment and full consular assistance, reaffirming their commitment to a lawful and transparent judicial process.

Idris issued this statement on June 21 in response to recent claims by US Congress members French Hill and Chrissy Houlahan concerning Gambaryan’s health issues and the substandard conditions at Kuje Detention facility, where he is held. The lawmakers visited Gambaryan on June 19, 2024, and posted a video advocating for his release.

The minister emphasized that Gambaryan’s detention is based on a court order and any changes to his status must be determined by the court itself. He asserted that despite being detained, Gambaryan continues to receive adequate healthcare services: "We refute allegations that Tigran Gambaryan, Binance Executive, is facing poor prison conditions in Nigeria and that his health is deteriorating. These claims are unequivocally false."

Idris also noted that Gambaryan is receiving full consular support from his home government, underscoring Nigeria's commitment to upholding his human rights, including access to quality healthcare and a fair trial during ongoing legal proceedings.

In contrast, Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, has called for her husband’s release, citing the recent withdrawal of charges by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as a precedent. Several US legislators have voiced support for her, highlighting Gambaryan’s decade-long career combating money laundering and tax evasion as a special agent at the US Internal Revenue Service.

Abdulkadir Abbas, director of the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission, testified during the hearing against Binance and Gambaryan, asserting that Binance did not obtain the necessary registration to operate in the country. The proceedings are set to resume on July 1 for further cross-examination.