A viral video shows a Binance executive struggling to walk into an Abuja courtroom, sparking widespread online discussion.
On Monday, concerns over Tigran Gambaryan’s health and detention conditions in Nigeria were heightened when the high-ranking Binance executive was observed having difficulty walking as he entered an Abuja courtroom.
It was reported that Gambaryan, who has been in custody since February, displayed evident discomfort as he entered the courtroom while dragging his left leg. Supposedly, prison officials had refused to grant him a wheelchair when requested.
Gambaryan can be seen in a viral video on social media platforms, particularly X (previously named Twitter), seeking aid from a prison guard as he painfully struggles to enter the courtroom.
After going viral, the video caused concerns about his wellbeing and whether he is receiving proper healthcare while in custody.
The detention of Gambaryan has sparked controversy, as sources have indicated that he is experiencing substantial mental and physical strain while being held.
Read Also:Putin Dismisses ICC War Crimes Warrant During His Trip to Mongolia
Refusal to provide a wheelchair and the obvious challenges he faces while walking have heightened worries regarding the circumstances he is facing.
Gambaryan’s distress is audible in the video as he expresses it by stating,
He clutched the guard’s wrist for support, saying “This is messed up. I’m not okay.”
Gambaryan relied on a crutch after the guard withdrew his assistance. He then faced the bystanders and expressed regret, saying, “I was warned not to expect any help.”
He expressed frustration, stating “There are instructions — this is messed up. Why am I unable to utilize a wheelchair? This is just for show. I’m an innocent individual and don’t deserve this treatment.”
Gambaryan’s legal representatives have submitted another petition seeking his release on medical grounds, emphasizing the need for urgent medical attention.
According to the spokesperson for his family, Gambaryan’s health is deteriorating due to various illnesses like malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis and related complications from a herniated disc. These conditions have caused severe pain that has made it almost impossible for him to walk without assistance.
Although Gambaryan’s physical difficulties were apparent, the prosecutor from EFCC who is handling his money laundering case refused his request for bail. The prosecutor argued that Gambaryan was not actually unwell and that he had been declining treatment.
Gambaryan’s confinement has included a limitation on his legal representation and contact with personnel from the U.S. embassy. His relatives have urged the United States government to become more involved, as indicated by Yuki Gambaryan who commented, “This is totally unfair…Tigran needs greater support from the U.S. Government…I am tired of this mistreatment; there must be repercussions for neglecting both legality and human rights.”
The ongoing situation has garnered worldwide notice, as more people demand a comprehensive inquiry into the living conditions of Gambaryan during his detention and urge for either his immediate liberation or appropriate medical treatment.
