From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Nigerian government has denied allegations of bribery made by cryptocurrency exchange Binance, calling the claims “a diversionary tactic and an attempted act of blackmail.”
In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government stated that Binance is being investigated for money laundering, terrorism financing, and foreign exchange manipulation through illegal trading.
The government also confirmed that a Binance executive who was in court-sanctioned protective custody has escaped from Nigeria and is currently a fugitive. Interpol is executing an international arrest warrant for the fugitive.
Mohammed further stated that the bribery claim is part of an orchestrated international campaign by Binance to undermine the Nigerian government. He reminded Binance that it will not clear its name in Nigeria by resorting to fictional claims and mudslinging media campaigns.
“The only way to resolve its issues will be by submitting itself to unobstructed investigation and judicial due process,” Mohammed said.
The government emphasised that it will continue to act within its laws and international norms and will not succumb to any form of blackmail.