A Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned until May 17 for the continuation of the trial in the money laundering case involving Binance Holdings Limited and two of its executives, Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla.
The defendants faced arraignment in April before Justice Emeka Nwite on a 5-count charge related to alleged tax evasion, currency speculation, and money laundering totaling $34,400,000, with May 2 set for trial.
During Thursday’s session, Tonye Krukrubo, representing the first defendant (Binance Holdings Ltd), informed the court that despite being served with the charges, his client had not received the necessary materials, including additional evidence required for the case’s prosecution.
In response, Ekele Iheanacho, representing the EFCC, stated that the first defendant was served through the second defendant, Tigran Gambaryan. However, the bailiff sent to the Correctional facility where Gambaryan is being held reported that Gambaryan declined to accept the process.
Justice Nwite then ordered that the first defendant be served in court. Following the service, Krukrubo requested an adjournment to allow him time to review the materials and adequately prepare for trial, citing the need for access to the materials in criminal proceedings.
Expressing concerns over unnecessary delays, Justice Nwite reminded the parties, particularly the prosecuting counsel, of the court’s commitment to expeditious proceedings. He cautioned against further delays, emphasizing the prosecuting counsel’s responsibility to ensure progress in the case.
Although Iheanacho assured the judge of readiness on their part, except for the bailiff’s error, Justice Nwite adjourned the hearing until May 17. Additionally, the judge will rule on the bail application filed by Tigran Gambaryan during the next session.
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