Why I sued Binance’s Gambaryan before ultimatum expired – Agbese

A member of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has explained his decision to file a defamation lawsuit against Tigran Gambaryan, an executive at Binance, over allegations that he and two other lawmakers demanded a $150 million bribe.

In a statement on Monday, Agbese, who serves as the Deputy Spokesperson of the House, revealed that he had initially given Gambaryan a seven-day ultimatum on 10 February 2025 to retract the allegation and issue a public apology.

READ MORE: Gambaryan stands by $150m bribery allegations amid FG’s ‘falsehood’ claims

“This egregious allegation was a clear attempt to tarnish my reputation and undermine my integrity,” he stated.

Agbese referenced a New York Times report from 7 May 2024, in which Binance initially claimed that “unknown persons” had approached the company on behalf of the House Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes to demand a bribe. At the time, Agbese chose not to join a lawsuit filed by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe against Binance, as his name was not explicitly mentioned.

However, he noted that when Gambaryan recently reiterated the claim and directly named him, it became imperative to take immediate legal action.

“It became necessary to go to court to protect my reputation and defend my integrity,” he said.

Agbese explained that just three days after issuing the ultimatum, on Monday, 17 February 2025, he filed legal proceedings against Gambaryan. He stated that his decision was not driven by personal motives but by the need to uphold his reputation as a distinguished Congressman and representative of Nigeria.

READ MORE: Alleged $150m Binance bribe: HEDA wants accused lawmakers probed

“Unfortunately, the accuser, Gambaryan, has shown no remorse for his actions. Instead of apologising, he has chosen to remain silent, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. I am an African, and family is at the heart of our culture. I have a larger family and more loved ones to care for than Gambaryan, and I will not let his baseless allegations go unchallenged.”

Agbese further stated that Gambaryan must either substantiate his claims in court or pay the compensation demanded in the lawsuit.

“I’m seeking compensation not for personal gain but as a token of accountability, serving as a deterrent to others who would seek to damage reputations and undermine trust in our society. I am confident that the courts will uphold the truth and hold Gambaryan accountable for his actions.”