In a dramatic turn of events, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered on Thursday that detained Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan receive treatment in a private hospital. This directive follows Gambaryan’s collapse in court during proceedings.
The judge mandated that the Nigerian Correctional Service take Gambaryan to Nizayime Hospital or any other suitable hospital within the jurisdiction, with adequate security provided during his stay.
Courtroom Incident
The incident occurred shortly after the trial resumed. When Gambaryan did not step forward to the dock, Justice Nwite inquired about his whereabouts. As Gambaryan’s lawyer assisted him towards the dock, Gambaryan collapsed, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Legal Arguments and Court Order
Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi (SAN), informed the court of his client’s deteriorating health, requesting that he be allowed treatment at Nizayime Hospital. The EFCC’s counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, did not oppose medical treatment but objected to specifying the hospital.
Mordi emphasized the need for proper care and indicated that Binance would cover the treatment costs, arguing that Gambaryan’s health was crucial for the trial to proceed. After listening to both parties, Justice Nwite granted the request with the condition that the Correctional Service could choose an appropriate hospital if necessary.
Judge’s Directive
Justice Nwite ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate Gambaryan’s treatment at Nizayime Hospital or another suitable facility. He also instructed the correctional service to provide medical reports to both the prosecution and defense based on prior medical examinations.
Background
Gambaryan, who faces charges of money laundering and terrorism financing alongside colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla and Binance Holdings Limited, was previously denied bail due to flight risk concerns. His absence from a recent arraignment for tax evasion charges further delayed proceedings.
This ruling underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring the health and safety of defendants while maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.