ABUJA, NIGERIA – A scene of mild drama unfolded at a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday when Tigran Gambaryan, a detained Binance executive facing money laundering charges, collapsed in the courtroom. The incident, attributed to alleged ill-health, occurred just as the case was called for the continuation of trial before Justice Emeka Nwite.
The courtroom was tense as Gambaryan, who was seated in the back row, did not immediately proceed to the dock when summoned. Justice Nwite inquired about the whereabouts of the 2nd defendant, prompting one of the defense lawyers, who was seated beside Gambaryan, to assist him. As they made their way slowly to the dock, Gambaryan suddenly collapsed, and the lawyer helped him to sit in the front row.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mark Mordi, representing Gambaryan, informed the court that his client was unwell and a formal application had been submitted to notify the court of his condition. “My lord, the case may not certainly proceed today,” Mordi stated, highlighting Gambaryan’s indisposition.
Throughout the proceedings, Gambaryan remained seated, leaning on the armrest for support, as observed by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). The development follows a previous decision by Justice Nwite on May 16, where Gambaryan’s bail application was dismissed. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had successfully argued that the defendant, currently held at Kuje Correctional Centre, was a flight risk.
This incident also coincides with the postponement of a tax evasion case filed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) against Binance Holdings Limited and Gambaryan, which was scheduled for the previous day but could not proceed due to Gambaryan’s absence in court.
As the legal battle continues, Gambaryan’s health condition and its impact on the trial proceedings remain a significant concern. The court’s next steps and any potential adjustments to the trial schedule are eagerly anticipated by both the defense and prosecution teams.