Nigeria's Federal Government has firmly rejected accusations of inadequate prison conditions for Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. They have emphasized that he is receiving proper medical care and full consular services, underscoring their commitment to lawful proceedings and judicial fairness.

The statement, issued on Friday, June 21, by Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, aimed to counter recent criticisms regarding Gambaryan's treatment.

Mohammed Idris responded directly to concerns raised by two United States Congress members, Representative French Hill and Representative Chrissy Houlahan. The representatives had recently visited Gambaryan at the Kuje Detention facility on June 19, 2024. They subsequently shared a video of their visit on X (formerly known as Twitter), advocating for his release and suggesting that his conditions were substandard.

Idris stressed that the Nigerian government is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all detainees, including Gambaryan, receive appropriate care and legal services. He reassured that Gambaryan's health and welfare are being closely monitored, and he is provided with necessary medical attention as required.

The Minister highlighted that Nigeria's detention facilities operate under strict regulations to ensure the humane treatment of all inmates. He asserted that Gambaryan’s case is being handled with the utmost respect for judicial processes, dismissing claims of any violations of his rights or poor treatment.

Idris's statement was not just a rebuttal but also a clarification of Nigeria's stance on judicial and consular matters. He pointed out that Nigeria has a robust legal system that guarantees fair trials and proper care for all detainees, regardless of their nationality or the nature of their charges.

In addressing the concerns of the U.S. representatives, Idris emphasized that Nigeria values its international relationships and respects the opinions of foreign officials. However, he made it clear that Nigeria's judicial processes are sovereign and must be respected.

Idris reiterated that Gambaryan’s detention is in line with Nigeria’s legal procedures and that he has access to all necessary consular services. This includes regular visits from consular officials and access to legal representation, ensuring that his rights are fully protected throughout the judicial process.

The visit by Representatives Hill and Houlahan to the Kuje Detention facility, and their subsequent video, had sparked significant media attention. The representatives called for Gambaryan’s release, citing concerns over his well-being and the conditions of his detention. Their advocacy highlighted the broader issue of the treatment of foreign detainees in Nigerian prisons.

The Nigerian government’s response sought to dispel these concerns, emphasizing that all necessary measures are in place to ensure Gambaryan’s well-being. They affirmed that the conditions at the Kuje facility meet international standards and that Gambaryan, like all detainees, is treated with dignity and respect.

This situation underscores the complexity of international diplomatic relations, especially when it involves the detention of foreign nationals. The Nigerian government’s firm stance on maintaining judicial integrity and adhering to legal procedures reflects their commitment to upholding the rule of law.

The emphasis on consular access and medical care highlights Nigeria’s efforts to align with international norms regarding the treatment of detainees. By providing detailed assurances about Gambaryan’s care and legal rights, the Nigerian government aims to address and mitigate any international concerns.

Idris's statement also serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the independence of judicial systems. The Nigerian government’s commitment to these principles is crucial in maintaining both domestic and international confidence in their legal processes.

The controversy surrounding Gambaryan’s detention illustrates the broader challenges faced by governments in balancing legal sovereignty with international diplomatic pressures. The Nigerian government’s response indicates a determination to uphold their legal standards while also addressing the concerns raised by international partners.

In conclusion, Nigeria's Federal Government has taken a strong stance in rebutting claims of poor prison conditions for Tigran Gambaryan. By emphasizing the quality of medical care and consular services provided to him, they seek to assure both the domestic and international communities of their commitment to lawful and humane treatment of all detainees. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in navigating the intersection of national legal processes and international diplomatic relations.