The Biden administration faces mounting pressure to intervene in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent specializing in cryptocurrency, and Nadeem Anjarwalla, a Binance executive, both detained by the Nigerian government since February 26, 2024.
The Chamber of Digital Commerce, in a blog post on March 15, urged swift diplomatic action to address what it deems an egregious injustice. The detention of Gambaryan, seen as arbitrary and lacking due process, sets a worrying precedent for American entrepreneurs abroad, particularly those in the cryptocurrency sector.
Nigeria, a U.S. ally and recipient of substantial foreign aid, presents a diplomatic challenge due to its strategic relationship with the United States.
Initial reports of the detentions emerged in late February, with both executives arriving in Abuja to discuss Nigeria’s directive to restrict access to Binance and other crypto exchanges.
However, instead of finding a resolution, Gambaryan and Anjarwalla were detained by Nigerian authorities after an initial meeting and taken to a government-managed guesthouse.
The detentions occurred just days before Binance announced its withdrawal from Nigeria on March 5, citing regulatory concerns.
As the situation unfolds, there are growing calls for the Biden administration to intervene diplomatically and secure the release of the detained executives. The Chamber of Digital Commerce underscores the need to uphold international law norms and protect American citizens abroad.
The case highlights the complex intersection of cryptocurrency regulation, international diplomacy, and human rights, underscoring the challenges facing U.S. officials in navigating such disputes.
The Biden administration is urged to take decisive action to address the detention of Gambaryan and Anjarwalla, safeguarding their rights and seeking a diplomatic resolution to the unfolding situation.
