BY ANTHONY OCHELA
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, refused a fresh bail application filed by the detained Binance Holdings Executive, Tigran Gambaryan.
Gambaryan is facing $35.4 million money laundering charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
In his ruling on the motion for bail on medical grounds, Justice Nwite rejected the request, noting that renowned Nigerian medical experts are already managing his health.
The judge, however, ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to a standard hospital in Abuja for treatment under security supervision.
He subsequently adjourned the case to October 18, November 22 and 25, for continuation of trial.
Counsel to Gambaryan, Mark Mordi had previously argued that his client’s health was “perilous.”
He stated that his client requires surgery for a herniated disc and psychiatric care due to depression and anxiety.
Mordi requested a six-week bail for Gambaryan to seek proper medical attention outside prison, citing inadequate care in custody.
EFCC’s lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho, objected to the defence’s claims, arguing that they exaggerated the severity of his condition.
He contended that the second defendant could receive treatment while detained at Kuje Correctional Facility, asserting that his health was not serious enough to warrant bail.
Iheanacho noted that Gambaryan had been taken to top medical institutions, including the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital, and that a medical report from the State House Clinic indicated he had refused medication and treatment.
He stated that reports from Nizamiye Hospital showed Gambaryan received comprehensive care and had exhibited no health deterioration.
Iheanacho reiterated that it had not been demonstrated that his health condition could not be managed by the Nigerian Correctional Service.
