“Binance Executive Accuses Nigerian Lawmakers of $150 Million Bribe Demand”
The head of financial crime at Binance, Mr. Tigran Gambaryan, has accused three Nigerian lawmakers of demanding a $150 million bribe during his detention in the country. Gambaryan, who was detained and charged by the Nigerian government over allegations of money laundering and aiding criminal activities, made the startling claim in a statement posted to his official X account.
The lawmakers named in the bribery allegations are Peter Akpanke, Philip Agbese, and Ginger Obinna Onwusibe. Onwusibe currently chairs the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, while Agbese serves as the deputy spokesman of the House.
Despite previous denials by the House of Representatives regarding any bribery demands, Gambaryan has now provided specific details surrounding the alleged request. He revealed that the demand occurred during a meeting on January 5, 2024, at the Department of State Services (DSS) office, with the secret police allegedly involved.
According to Gambaryan’s statement, the DSS officials made it clear that Binance would need to comply with the lawmakers’ demands before any further discussions could take place. The executive also claimed that during a follow-up meeting with the House members, fake cameras were set up to create the illusion of an official proceeding, but these cameras were not functional.
Gambaryan further alleged that the lawmakers demanded the bribe in cryptocurrency, to be deposited directly into their personal wallets.
The accused lawmakers have yet to respond to the explosive allegations.
