Binance’s Gambaryan Insists $150M Bribery Allegation Against Nigerian Lawmakers Is True

Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance, has doubled down on his explosive bribery allegations against three Nigerian lawmakers, insisting that his claims are factual. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Gambaryan maintained that his accusations were rooted in truth and that he was merely filling in the gaps left by media reports.

The former U.S. federal agent alleged that lawmakers Philip Agbese, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, and Peter Akpanke had demanded a staggering $150 million bribe to halt his arrest and prosecution over money laundering allegations. These accusations have since been dismissed by both the lawmakers and the Nigerian government. However, Tigran Gambaryan has urged law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and Nigeria to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

Nigerian Lawmakers Deny Allegations, Threaten Legal Action

The three accused lawmakers have strongly denied Gambaryan’s claims, describing them as “false, baseless, and an attempt to malign Nigeria’s legislative body.” The House of Representatives has also distanced itself from the allegations, asserting that the institution remains committed to transparency and due process.

Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, one of the accused lawmakers, has taken legal action to clear his name, filing a lawsuit against Gambaryan for defamation. The other two lawmakers, Philip Agbese and Peter Akpanke, have also hinted at possible legal recourse to challenge the accusations. The Nigerian government, in an official statement, dismissed the claims as an attempt by Gambaryan to divert attention from Binance’s financial misconduct allegations in Nigeria.

Gambaryan’s Ordeal in Nigeria

Gambaryan, along with his colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla, was detained in early 2024 during a visit to Nigeria aimed at resolving regulatory disputes between Binance and the Nigerian government. The duo was accused of engaging in money laundering and economic sabotage, leading to their prolonged detention.

While Anjarwalla managed to escape from custody and flee the country, Gambaryan remained detained, facing legal battles over what he described as “trumped-up charges.” His detention sparked international controversy, with the U.S. government intervening to secure his release. After months of diplomatic negotiations, Gambaryan was finally freed in late 2024 on humanitarian grounds.

U.S. and International Reactions

Gambaryan’s bribery allegations have drawn significant attention from international stakeholders, particularly the United States. As a former Special Agent with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, his claims carry weight within law enforcement and diplomatic circles. The U.S. government has yet to issue a formal statement on the allegations, but analysts suggest that Washington may push for further investigations.

International anti-corruption organizations have also called for transparency in the handling of the case. Some experts believe that the controversy could strain U.S.-Nigeria relations, especially if evidence supporting Gambaryan’s claims emerges. Meanwhile, Binance continues to battle regulatory scrutiny in multiple countries over allegations of financial misconduct.

Lingering Controversy and Next Steps

Despite his release, Gambaryan has remained vocal about the challenges he faced while in Nigerian custody. He expressed deep frustration over the emotional toll the ordeal took on his family, emphasizing that his wife, mother, and children suffered immensely during his detention. His latest remarks suggest that he is unwilling to let the bribery allegations be swept under the rug.

As the controversy continues, legal experts speculate that further investigations may be launched, either by U.S. authorities or independent anti-corruption agencies. The Nigerian government, on the other hand, appears focused on defending its reputation and maintaining confidence in its legal and regulatory systems. The unfolding developments will likely determine whether Gambarya’s allegations gain traction or fade into diplomatic history.