In a significant diplomatic intervention, U.S. lawmakers Chrissy Houlahan and French Hill have made a compelling case for the release of Tigran Gambaryan, a senior executive at Binance, from Nigerian custody. Gambaryan faces severe charges related to money laundering allegedly tied to his role at the global cryptocurrency exchange.

During their visit to Nigeria, Hill and Houlahan observed Gambaryan's deteriorating health firsthand, noting his battle with malaria and double pneumonia. Hill expressed deep concern over Gambaryan's physical condition, highlighting significant weight loss and inadequate access to medical care in prison.

"Tigran must be immediately granted a humanitarian release, all charges dropped, and he must return home to America where he belongs," asserted Hill, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Hill, a Republican from Arkansas, and Houlahan, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, were in Nigeria to discuss anti-terrorism efforts when they took the opportunity to advocate for Gambaryan's release. Hill urged robust support from the U.S. embassy to facilitate Gambaryan's return, given his critical health and prison conditions.

While Nigeria recently dropped tax-related charges against Binance executives, including Gambaryan, he remains detained pending trial. This development follows earlier efforts by U.S. politicians urging President Joe Biden and top officials to intervene on Gambaryan's behalf, citing concerns of wrongful detention and fears for his safety.

Gambaryan and his colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were arrested in February under criminal charges related to their activities representing Binance in regulatory discussions with Nigerian authorities. Anjarwalla was extradited from Kenya after escaping custody, underscoring the severity and complexity of the legal situation surrounding Binance's operations in Nigeria.

Binance has staunchly defended Gambaryan, arguing that he lacks decision-making authority within the company and should not be held accountable for the charges brought against him. The company continues to advocate for his release and to navigate the challenging legal landscape in Nigeria.

As diplomatic efforts intensify, the case of Tigran Gambaryan underscores broader tensions between global cryptocurrency firms and national regulatory frameworks, with implications for international business operations and human rights advocacy.