Binance Executive Tigray Gambaryan Accuses Nigeria Security Adviser of Hypocrisy Amid Visa Dispute
posted 14th February 2025
Binance Executive Tigray Gambaryan Accuses Nigeria Security Adviser of Hypocrisy Amid Visa Dispute
Abuja, Nigeria— Former Detained Binance executive Tigray Gambaryan has publicly criticised Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, accusing him of hypocrisy after Ribadu condemned Canada for denying visas to Nigerian military officials. The exchange, unfolding on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), highlights escalating tensions between Gambaryan’s legal predicament and Nigeria’s diplomatic friction with Canada.
Gambaryan, a Binance compliance officer detained in Nigeria since February 2024 amid a government crackdown on cryptocurrency exchanges, responded sharply to Ribadu’s recent remarks. Ribadu had reportedly lashed out at Canada, stating it should “go to hell” after visa applications by Nigerian military chiefs were rejected, possibly over human rights concerns.
In a pointed retort, Gambaryan wrote: “@NuhuRibadu complaining about the mistreatment of those invited to Canada? That’s rich. How about the way you treated those you invited to Nigeria? The hypocrisy is real.”* The statement alludes to his own detention, which followed an invitation by Nigerian authorities to discuss Binance’s regulatory compliance.
Nigeria’s government has intensified scrutiny of crypto platforms like Binance, alleging illicit financial flows and naira manipulation. Gambaryan and a colleague were detained upon arriving in Abuja for negotiations, with charges later filed against Binance for tax evasion and money laundering.
Ribadu, a former anti-corruption official appointed National Security Adviser in 2023, has not directly addressed Gambaryan’s criticism. His outburst against Canada reflects broader Nigerian frustration over perceived Western disrespect, while Gambaryan’s rebuttal underscores allegations of Nigeria’s own mistreatment of foreign guests.
The spat highlights strained Nigeria-Canada relations and raises questions about due process in Gambaryan’s case. His detention drew international attention, with advocates arguing it signals risks for foreign businesses.
Neither Binance nor Ribadu’s office has issued formal responses to Gambaryan’s remarks. However, the exchange underscores deepening tensions between Nigerian authorities and global tech firms, as well as the delicate balance of diplomatic reciprocity.
