A Federal High Court in Abuja witnessed an unexpected turn of events on Friday when the Binance Holdings Limited’s executive, Tigran Gambaryan, failed to appear for his trial.
The absence of Gambaryan, who has been in custody in connection with alleged money laundering charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, led to confusion among legal representatives and court officials.
Justice Emeka Nwite had initially set Friday for the continuation of the trial after rejecting Gambaryan’s second bail request on October 11. However, when the case was called, Gambaryan was conspicuously absent, despite the presence of all other parties, including his counsel and the prosecution.
When questioned by the judge, Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi SAN, stated he was unaware of his client’s whereabouts. The EFCC’s counsel, Ekele Iheanacho SAN, expressed similar confusion, asking for a brief recess to inquire with the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, about the situation. He added that Gambaryan should have been present, as he remained in their custody.
The situation became more puzzling when an officer from the NCoS, present in court, confirmed that Gambaryan had indeed been in their custody but did not initially provide a clear explanation for his absence. The court stood down the matter and asked the officer to contact the Kuje Correctional Centre to verify Gambaryan’s status.
READ ALSO : Court denies bail for Binance Executive, Gambaryan on health grounds
When the court reconvened, the officer informed Justice Nwite that Gambaryan was seriously ill, which had prevented him from attending court. Following this revelation, Mordi requested an adjournment to allow for a report on his client’s health and to ensure he receives necessary medical attention.
The EFCC did not oppose the adjournment, with Iheanacho stressing the importance of Gambaryan’s health. Consequently, Justice Nwite adjourned the trial to October 25 to receive an update on Gambaryan’s condition.
Credible News recalls that Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier denied a renewed bail application from Tigran Gambaryan, a detained Binance Holdings Executive, who sought release on medical grounds.
In his ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite emphasized that Gambaryan’s health was being adequately managed by prominent Nigerian medical professionals. However, the court ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCS, to transfer Gambaryan to a reputable hospital in Abuja for a treatment period of three days to two weeks, under strict security supervision.
The case has been adjourned to October 18, November 22, and 25 for the continuation of the trial. Gambaryan’s counsel, Mark Mordi, had argued that his client’s health was deteriorating, requiring surgery for a herniated disc, as well as psychiatric care for depression and anxiety. He requested a six-week bail for Gambaryan to seek specialized medical attention outside prison, citing the inadequacy of care in custody.
The prosecution, led by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, counsel Ekele Iheanacho, opposed the application, accusing the defense of exaggerating Gambaryan’s condition. Iheanacho argued that the detained executive could receive proper treatment within the Kuje Correctional Facility, noting that he had already been treated at top facilities, including the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital. He further highlighted that medical reports indicated Gambaryan had refused some treatments and showed no signs of severe health decline.
Credible News.ng
