Tigran Gambaryan, the detained Binance executive, has filed a lawsuit against the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging violations of his fundamental human rights.
In an originating motion, Gambaryan asserted that his detention and confiscation of his travel document by the NSA and EFCC violated Section 35 (1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).
He petitioned the court to declare his detention unlawful and to order the immediate release of his passport.
Furthermore, Gambaryan sought a perpetual injunction restraining the respondents and their agents from further detaining him in connection with any investigations or demands related to Binance.
He also requested that the court mandate the respondents to issue a public apology to him.
Gambaryan clarified that his presence in Nigeria, alongside Nadeem Anjarwalla, was in response to invitations from the NSA and EFCC to discuss matters concerning Binance in the country.
He maintained that he had not committed any offense during the meeting and was not formally informed of any wrongdoing he allegedly committed in Nigeria.
During Thursday’s court proceedings, Counsel to the plaintiffs, T.J. Krukrubo, informed the court that the respondents had been served with the legal documents.
However, Krukrubo unexpectedly withdrew from representing Anjarwalla in the matter, without providing reasons for his decision.
In response, the trial judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, adjourned the case until April 8, allowing for further deliberation on the matter.
Gambaryan’s legal action underscores the escalating tensions surrounding his detention and raises questions about the legality of his confinement.
As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the court will adjudicate on the matter and whether Gambaryan’s demands for redress will be met.