The detained Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, has made allegations against the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claiming a violation of his fundamental human rights.
Gambaryan filed an originating motion, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/356/24, seeking a declaration that his detention and the seizure of his international travel passport contravened Section 35 (1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution.
In his plea before the court, Gambaryan requested an order for his release from the custody of the NSA and the EFCC, along with the immediate return of his international travel passport.
Furthermore, Gambaryan sought a perpetual injunction to restrain the respondents and their agents from further detaining him concerning any investigation into or demands from Binance.
He also urged the court to mandate the respondents to issue a public apology to him for the alleged violations.
Gambaryan asserted that he had come to Nigeria alongside Nadeem Anjarwalla to respond to invitations from the ONSA and EFCC, aimed at discussing issues concerning Binance's operations in Nigeria.
Anjarwalla reportedly fled from the guest house where they were both being held, adding intrigue to the situation.
Gambaryan's accusations have sparked controversy, raising questions about the treatment of foreign executives in Nigeria and the conduct of its security agencies.
The case has attracted attention both domestically and internationally, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments.
Observers speculate on the potential implications of this case for Nigeria's relations with foreign investors and the broader business community.
Efforts to reach the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, and the EFCC for comments on the allegations made by Gambaryan were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The unfolding legal battle between Gambaryan and the Nigerian authorities underscores the importance of upholding human rights and due process in law enforcement actions.