The Nigerian High Court has rejected a lawsuit filed by Binance regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla. Anjarwalla alleged that Nigerian government agencies violated his basic rights by detaining him and confiscating his passport.
Judge Inyang Ekwo dismissed Anjarwalla’s lawsuit against the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on June 19, citing “lack of diligent prosecution.” Neither Anjarwalla nor legal representatives for the respondents attended the court session.
Legal Proceedings Involving Anjarwalla and Nigerian Agencies
Nadeem Anjarwalla filed a lawsuit on March 28, seeking a declaration that the actions of Nigerian government agencies were unlawful. Binance’s lawyer, Tonye Krukrubo, simultaneously requested to withdraw from the case, prompting Anjarwalla to search for new legal representation. However, Anjarwalla was absent from court proceedings as he had escaped prison and fled to Kenya. The court adjourned the case until June 19 to allow Anjarwalla time to engage new lawyers.
Anjarwalla alleged that the government agencies violated Section 35 (1) and (4) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended). He expressed that the prolonged detention by the respondents caused significant hardship and emotional distress to himself, his wife, children, and other family members.
Detention of Anjarwalla and Gambaryan: Legal and Diplomatic Tensions
Nigerian authorities detained Nadeem Anjarwalla and Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, on February 26. Gambaryan had traveled from the United States to aid in the company’s defense against charges of tax evasion and money laundering. These incidents have strained relations between the United States and Nigeria.
In response, Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, filed a separate lawsuit against the NSA and EFCC, citing similar grievances. His case is set for a hearing on July 9, with Tonye Krukrubo continuing as his legal representative. Meanwhile, Anjarwalla, who holds dual British and Kenyan citizenship, remains in Kenya as Nigeria seeks his extradition.
Following Anjarwalla’s dismissal, Nigerian authorities are expected to intensify efforts to extradite him from Kenya for prosecution. However, Gambaryan’s ongoing lawsuit presents a critical juncture that could potentially lead to his release if successful.
Important: Please note that this article is only meant to provide information and should not be taken as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other type of advice.
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