A fresh challenge has emerged in the ongoing legal proceeding of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria. Despite a recent court order directing prison officials to transfer Gambaryan to a hospital for medical treatment, the Nigerian Correctional Service has ignored the directive, according to DL News. This refusal comes amidst rising concerns over Gambaryan’s health as he suffers from malaria and a severe throat infection.

Last week, a Nigerian judge ordered the transfer of Gambaryan, who collapsed in court, to a hospital. However, the Nigerian Correctional Service, which oversees the prison system, has not complied. 

According to Yuki Gambaryan, Tigran’s wife, and a government official familiar with the situation, prison officials have failed to follow the court's order. Instead of receiving hospital care, Gambaryan is being treated in a poorly equipped clinic within Kuje Prison.

Health Concerns Escalate

The clinic at Kuje Prison is reportedly in dire need of refurbishment and lacks adequate supplies. Yuki Gambaryan expressed deep concern over her husband’s deteriorating physical and mental health. 

"I am devastated and shocked that, despite the court’s clear directive for his admission to a hospital, the authorities have not allowed him to leave the very prison causing his illness," she stated in a message to DL News.

Delaying compliance with court orders is reportedly common among Nigerian officials. Gambaryan’s situation appears to be linked to attempts by prosecutors and prison authorities to prevent his transfer to Nizamiye Hospital, the facility preferred by his lawyers. 

Last week, prosecutors urged the court to allow prison officials some flexibility in choosing the hospital for Gambaryan’s treatment.

Concerns Over Transfer Location

A source close to the matter revealed that some officials are pushing for Gambaryan to be transferred to Kuje General Hospital, which is closer to the prison. They are concerned about potential escape plans linked to the preferred Nizamiye Hospital. 

"They feel that it is closer and they don’t know if there are escape plans tied to that hospital his people want him to go to," the source said. 

While Kuje General is nearer, it has a reputation for mismanagement, unlike the upscale Nizamiye Hospital.

Gambaryan’s next court hearing is scheduled for June 14, where Gambaryan faces tax violation charges filed by Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service. Meanwhile, his wife and attorneys continue to advocate for his well-being, urging authorities to provide proper medical aid.