Biden Faces Pressure Over Detention of U.S. Citizens by Nigeria

1. Biden urged to act swiftly in Gambaryan and Anjarwalla’s Nigerian detention, with concerns over national dignity and bilateral relations.
2. Detentions highlight risks for American entrepreneurs abroad, particularly in cryptocurrency.
3. Nigeria’s alliance with the U.S. complicates diplomatic response to the situation.

The Biden administration is facing mounting pressure to intervene in the detention of Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent specializing in cryptocurrency, and Nadeem Anjarwalla, a Binance executive, by the Nigerian government.

The Chamber of Digital Commerce, a prominent industry organization, has urged for urgent diplomatic action to secure their release.

Arbitrary Detention Raises Concerns

Gambaryan and Anjarwalla have been held without passports since February 26, 2024. In fact, it is prompting concerns over arbitrary detention and due process violations. The Chamber of Digital Commerce expressed alarm over the precedent this sets. This is suggesting that American entrepreneurs abroad, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector, may face similar unjust actions.

“The unwarranted detention of Tigran Gambaryan is more than a legal issue; it is a matter of national dignity and the protection of American citizens worldwide.”

In a blog post on March 15, the Chamber of Digital Commerce emphasized the broader implications of Gambaryan’s detention, framing it as a matter of national dignity and the protection of American citizens worldwide. They denounced the detentions as arbitrary and a challenge to international law norms and diplomatic relations.

Nigeria, a key U.S. ally and recipient of substantial foreign aid, presents a diplomatic challenge for the Biden administration. Despite being allies, the detention of U.S. citizens by Nigerian authorities adds complexity to bilateral relations, especially given the absence of a clear precedent for such a situation.

Unresolved Dispute with Binance

Gambaryan and Anjarwalla traveled to Nigeria in response to an invitation from the government to discuss a dispute involving Binance, a major cryptocurrency exchange.

The Nigerian government had directed telecom providers to restrict access to Binance, citing concerns over currency devaluation and illicit financial flows. However, instead of resolving the issue, the executives were detained shortly after meetings with officials.

The detentions of Gambaryan and Anjarwalla have attracted international attention, particularly within the cryptocurrency community. With ongoing pressure on the Biden administration to act swiftly, the case highlights the challenges facing American citizens abroad.