$79.5bn Suit: Nigeria govt, Binance clash over court papers’ exchange

$79.5bn Suit: Nigeria govt, Binance clash over court papers’ exchange

The Federal Government of Nigeria and global crypto giant Binance are locked in a high-stakes legal clash over a staggering $79.5 billion lawsuit—and now, even the method of serving court documents is under fire.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) insists it legally served Binance through substituted means—specifically via the email of Eleanor Hughes, the company’s General Counsel. But Binance is fighting back, calling the move “improper” and claiming it violates legal protocols.

The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1444/2024, accuses the global crypto giant and its officials—Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla—of operating unregulated crypto services in Nigeria, allegedly causing massive economic damage.

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Justice Inyang Ekwo had earlier granted permission for substituted service after a motion by FIRS counsel Kanu Agabi (SAN), citing Hughes’ key role and prior legal dealings with the Nigerian government using the same email.

FIRS fired back with a counter-affidavit, describing Binance’s objections as “false and misleading.” They argue that Binance’s legal team, previously briefed through the same channels, is clearly aware of the suit.

The agency also took a swipe at global crypto giant’s opaque corporate structure, saying the company had failed to prove it’s legitimately registered in the Cayman Islands, nor provide a verifiable address.

Despite earlier attempts to serve Gambaryan while in Kuje prison—efforts redirected to law firm Aluko & Oyebode on his instruction—the firm refused, citing lack of formal engagement.

Still, FIRS contends the global crypto giant has suffered no injustice and is clearly engaged in the legal process.

The case continues on May 12, when the court will hear Binance’s request to nullify the substituted service order.

$79.5bn Suit: Nigeria govt, Binance clash over court papers’ exchange