US Representative James Hill has expressed concerns over the ongoing detention of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria, warning that it could strain the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United States.

Hill made his position clear in a recent statement, emphasizing that Gambaryan, a US citizen, has been held for an extended period despite not being directly involved in the accusations against him.

In his statement, Hill expressed disappointment that Nigeria, considered a key ally of the US, is detaining Gambaryan over charges of tax evasion and other financial crimes.

Hill urged President Joe Biden to take stronger action to secure the release of the executive, noting that Gambaryan had played a crucial role in helping American authorities dismantle numerous cybercrime networks.

He argued that it is time for the US to reciprocate the support Gambaryan has provided to the country’s fight against cybercrime.

Gambaryan, who has now been detained for six months, continues to face accusations that have drawn significant attention.

Hill, who serves as Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee and leads the subcommittee on digital assets and financial technology, has been one of the prominent voices calling for his release.

He stressed that Gambaryan’s contributions in combating global cyber threats should be acknowledged, and his current legal troubles in Nigeria should not overshadow his positive impact.

This is not the first time Hill has called for action regarding Gambaryan’s situation.

Along with fellow US lawmaker Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania, Hill had previously visited the Binance executive in detention earlier in the year.

Following their visit, both lawmakers raised alarms over the poor prison conditions and the negative effects on Gambaryan’s health.

They appealed to the US embassy in Nigeria to advocate for his humanitarian release, arguing that he was wrongfully detained and pointing to his deteriorating health as a critical factor in their plea.

The ongoing case has stirred international attention, with more voices joining the call for Gambaryan’s freedom.

Hill and Houlahan’s efforts have also drawn support from a congressional task force dedicated to addressing cases of Americans who are wrongfully detained abroad.

The lawmakers strongly believe that Gambaryan’s situation aligns with the criteria of wrongful detention and are determined to push for his release.

As the case lingers, the prolonged detention of Gambaryan has sparked debates about the broader implications for US-Nigeria relations.

The lawmakers have emphasized that resolving this matter diplomatically could help avoid tensions and maintain the strong ties between both nations.

The situation remains a critical topic, with hopes for a resolution growing as pressure mounts for Nigerian authorities to reconsider their position.