Legal Setback for Binance Executive

Nadeem Anjarwalla, a Binance executive, suffered a significant setback in Nigeria when a federal high court dismissed his human rights lawsuit.

The lawsuit was filed against the National Security Adviser and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Anjarwalla's case was greatly affected by his lack of legal representation after his lawyer withdrew from the case.

Withdrawal of Legal Representation

Anjarwalla, who holds dual British and Kenyan citizenship, fled Nigerian custody on March 28 amidst growing regulatory concerns surrounding Binance's operations there.

According to Nairametrics, Binance's lawyer, Tonye Krukrubo, requested to withdraw from the case to give Anjarwalla time to find new representation.

By then, Anjarwalla had already escaped prison and fled to Kenya. The court suspended proceedings until June 19, allowing Anjarwalla to appoint new legal representatives.

Another Binance Executive Detained

While Anjarwalla managed to flee, Tigran Gambaryan, another Binance executive, remains detained at Kuje Prison in Nigeria. Gambaryan is facing charges related to money laundering and has been denied bail by the court, which considers him a flight risk.

Despite the Federal Inland Revenue Service dropping charges against him, the Nigerian government continues to discuss regulatory issues with Binance.

Allegations and Court Decision

Anjarwalla claimed that Nigerian government entities breached Section 35 (1) and (4) of the Constitution. He argued that his unlawful detention was causing immense suffering for him and his family.

However, Justice Ekwo dismissed the human rights case due to a lack of diligent prosecution. The court has scheduled July 9 for the hearing of Gambaryan's suit.

'Justice Ekwo dismissed the human rights case due to a lack of diligent prosecution.'

Tense Diplomatic Relations

This case has created a tense situation between the US and Nigeria, with potential US intervention in Gambaryan's case.

Recently, FBI Director Christopher Wray met with Nigeria's President, fueling discussions of diplomatic efforts to secure Gambaryan's release. US lawmakers have called for Gambaryan's freedom, criticizing Nigeria's actions as baseless and forceful attempts to pressure Binance.

However, Binance has maintained that Gambaryan is not a significant decision-maker within the company and argues against his continued detention while negotiations with Nigerian authorities are ongoing.