By kawaekwune Jeffrey
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has again rejected a fresh bail request for Tigran Gambaryan, an executive of Binance Holdings, on medical grounds.
Justice Bwite issued this ruling on October 11, 2024, despite claims by his lawyer, Mark Mordi (SAN), that Gambaryan’s health was critical and required immediate surgery for a herniated disc, as well as psychiatric care due to depression and anxiety.
Mordi had pleaded for six weeks of bail to allow Gambaryan to seek adequate medical attention outside the prison, arguing that the current treatment in custody was insufficient.
However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed this motion through its counsel, Ekele Iheanacho.
Iheanacho, in his argument before the court, said Gambaryan had been taken to reputable medical institutions, including the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital.
He stated: “A medical report from the State House Clinic shows that Gambaryan refused medication and treatment.”
Following arguments from both sides, Justice Nwite ruled that Gambaryan’s health was being managed by “renowned Nigerian medical experts” and was not severe enough to warrant bail.
He also ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to a standard hospital in Abuja for treatment lasting between three days and two weeks under strict security supervision.
The trial is set to continue on October 18, November 22, and 25, 2024, respectively.
It would be recalled that Gambaryan faces charges of laundering about $35.4 million brought against him by the EFCC. The Binance executive has been in custody at Kuje Correctional Facility since his arrest earlier this year.
