A U.S. lawmaker has expressed concern over the ongoing detention of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria, warning that it could strain diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In a statement on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Representative James Hill, Vice Chairman of the U.S. House Financial Services Committee, urged the Biden administration to intensify efforts to secure Gambaryan’s release. Hill expressed surprise that Nigeria, a key U.S. ally, is holding a U.S. citizen who, according to Hill, is not directly involved in the matter for which he is detained.
Hill also highlighted Gambaryan’s significant contributions to combating cybercrime, calling on the U.S. government to reciprocate by ensuring his freedom. “He has helped us bust many cybercrime rings, and now it’s time to return the favor,” Hill stated.
The lawmaker’s comments come as Gambaryan’s case continues to gain attention, with increasing calls for his release. In a video posted on his X account, Hill questioned U.S. Under Secretary for Management, John Bass, on the administration’s response to the situation. Hill emphasized that Nigeria, unlike other nations with strained relations with the U.S., should not be handling the case this way.
Hill criticized the Nigerian government’s response, describing it as “embarrassing” and expressing concern over Gambaryan’s declining health. He called for stronger engagement from the U.S. president and other officials.
Bass, in response, acknowledged the complexities of the Nigerian legal system but expressed optimism about a resolution, citing ongoing efforts by the U.S. government to secure Gambaryan’s humanitarian release due to his health and innocence.