Binance Executive Accuses Nigerian Lawmakers Of Bribery.
Tigran Gambaryan, a senior executive at Binance, has accused three Nigerian lawmakers of demanding a $150 million bribe during his detention in the country. Gambaryan, who served as Binance’s head of financial crime, was held by Nigerian authorities for several months over allegations of money laundering and enabling criminal activity. He was released after the US government intervened, leading to the charges being dropped.
Allegations Against Lawmakers
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gambaryan named the lawmakers as Peter Akpanke, Philip Agbese, and Ginger Obinna Onwusibe. Notably, Onwusibe heads the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, while Agbese serves as the deputy spokesperson of the House.
Gambaryan claimed that the lawmakers demanded the bribe in cryptocurrency, alleging that they staged a meeting with fake cameras and media to make it appear official. He further stated that the Department of State Services (DSS) was aware of the situation and insisted that Binance comply with the lawmakers’ requests.
House of Representatives Denies Claims
The Nigerian House of Representatives has previously denied any involvement in bribery related to Binance or its officials. Efforts are ongoing to obtain responses from the accused lawmakers regarding Gambaryan’s allegations.
Lack of Evidence and Ongoing Investigations
Gambaryan did not provide documentary evidence to support his claims, and the authenticity of his allegations remains unverified. Nigerian authorities have yet to issue an official response, but the accusations are expected to prompt further scrutiny into the handling of Binance’s case in the country.
