Reps probe Binance executive escape from custody, summon NSA

The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the circumstances that led to the escape of Nadeem Anjarwalla, an executive of cryptocurrency platform Binance.

The House also summoned National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu to explain what led to the escape of the Binance executive from custody.

This followed the adoption of a motion by Dominic Okafor (LP-Anambra) during plenary in Abuja on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

It would be recalled that the Federal Government arrested and detained Anjarwalla on February 26 for alleged complicity of the company in money laundering and terrorism financing.

Two Binance officials were billed to appear in court on April 4, to answer to the alleged crimes against Nigeria before the security breach occurred.

Arrested Binance executive escapes from Abuja custody

Okafor said that the escape of the Binance executive from the office of the NSA using a “smuggled passport” was disappointing, embarrassing and disturbing.

The lawmaker said it portrayed the porous nature of the security architecture of the country to the world.

Adopting the motion, the House invited the NSA to explain the circumstances that led to the despicable escape of a high-profile suspect from his office.

The House also mandated the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to take over the investigation and prosecution of personnel found complicit in the escape of Anjarwalla.

The House equally mandated the committees on Financial Crimes, NSA, and Intelligence and Interior to ensure compliance and report to the lawmakers in two weeks.

The Star