Demand for Transparency in Nigerian Cryptocurrency Industry: Stakeholders Call on Binance to Reveal Identity of Bribery Attempt Official
The Nigerian cryptocurrency industry is in turmoil as stakeholders demand transparency from Binance following allegations of bribery. In a recent interview with Cointelegraph, local crypto leaders expressed concerns that the accusations could tarnish the country’s image if not addressed properly.
Rume Ophi, the executive secretary of the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN), emphasized the importance of Binance revealing the identity of the official involved in the alleged bribery attempt. Ophi warned that any negative portrayal of the government by Binance could have detrimental effects on Nigeria’s crypto sector.
Binance CEO Richard Teng recently provided an explanation regarding the detention of Tigran Gambaryan, a former IRS agent who previously worked for Binance. Teng claimed that unidentified individuals approached the exchange’s employees with offers to settle the allegations.
Nathaniel Luz, CEO of Flincap, expressed skepticism about the bribery allegations and urged Binance to name specific individuals to substantiate their claims. The Nigerian SEC previously stated that Binance Nigeria was operating illegally in the country, leading to increased scrutiny from government officials.
As tensions escalate, the Nigerian House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes has called Binance CEO Richard Teng to appear before the committee. The situation has also resulted in the detention of Gambaryan and his colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla.
With the future of Binance’s operations in Nigeria hanging in the balance, stakeholders are demanding transparency and accountability to protect the country’s image and the integrity of the crypto industry.