The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive facing charges of laundering $35.4 million, after he failed to appear in court due to health issues.
The presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, rescheduled the hearing for October 25 to allow time for updates on Gambaryan’s medical condition.
At the Friday session, it was revealed that Gambaryan, the second defendant in the case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, was absent. Both the defence and prosecution were initially unaware of the reason for his absence. Justice Nwite temporarily halted proceedings for clarification.
Upon resumption, the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Ekele Iheanacho, informed the court that Gambaryan was undergoing medical treatment. A representative from the correctional facility added, “My Lord, the 2nd defendant is very sick, and we will not be able to produce him in court today.”
Gambaryan’s counsel, Mark Mordi (SAN), requested an adjournment to provide more time for a detailed report on his client’s health. “I humbly request a date next week to update the court on the 2nd defendant’s condition,” Mordi pleaded.
Prosecutor Iheanacho did not oppose the request, emphasizing the importance of health considerations. “While we are keen to advance the case, we recognize the importance of addressing health issues and do not oppose the adjournment,” he said.
With no objections, Justice Nwite adjourned the case to October 25, seeking further updates on Gambaryan’s health.
This latest development follows an earlier unsuccessful attempt by Gambaryan’s legal team to secure bail on medical grounds. Citing the need for surgery and psychiatric care, Mordi had requested a six-week bail for treatment outside the correctional facility. However, the court rejected the application, affirming that adequate medical care could be provided within Nigeria and directing that Gambaryan receive treatment at a standard hospital in Abuja under secure conditions.
