Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has accused the Nigerian government of unlawfully detaining one of the company’s former employees, amid rising tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action over alleged Christian killings in the country.
In a post on X, CZ wrote: “Nigeria also basically kidnapped Tigran Gambaryan, an ex-Binance employee and an ex-US federal agent, for 8 months without cause a year ago.”
Recall that Gambaryan, a former Binance executive, was detained by Nigerian authorities in 2024 during a dispute between the government and the cryptocurrency exchange over alleged tax evasion and regulatory violations.
He spent several months in custody after Binance was accused of operating illegally and facilitating foreign exchange infractions before his eventual release.
CZ made the comment in response to a post by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who had affirmed Trump’s warning and signaled readiness for potential military intervention.
Hegseth wrote: “Yes sir. The killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria — and anywhere — must end immediately. The Department of War is preparing for action. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.”
The exchange followed Trump’s viral statement threatening to cut off U.S. aid to Nigeria and launch a military strike if the government fails to stop the ongoing attacks on Christians.
Recall Dockaysworld reported that President Trump had earlier re-designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians and warned of further action if the killings persist.
Meanwhile, an aide to President Tinubu, Daniel Bwala has reveled that the Nigerian and American presidents will meet in person soon to discuss the matter.
The Nigerian government has yet to respond to CZ’s accusation or Trump’s remarks but has previously denied allegations of a religious genocide, maintaining that terrorism in the country affects both Christians and Muslims alike.
