Former Nigerian Senator Shehu Sani has called on President Bola Tinubu to advocate for the release of Nigerians incarcerated in the United States. This request comes after Tinubu’s recent discussion with U.S. President Joe Biden, during which the two leaders addressed important issues, including security collaboration and Africa’s representation on the United Nations Security Council.
Sani, a social activist and former member of Nigeria’s 8th National Assembly, expressed his thoughts on Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter), urging Tinubu to approach Biden for humanitarian relief for Nigerian prisoners in the U.S. “I suggest that next week our President should also call the U.S. President so that imprisoned Nigerians who commit offenses in the U.S. can also be released on humanitarian grounds,” he posted, adding, “What is good for Binance is good for Nigerians in U.S. jails.”
Tinubu’s recent conversation with Biden, which took place on Tuesday, touched on several key topics, as confirmed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar. Among the issues discussed was the detention of Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s Head of Finance Crime Compliance, held in Nigeria. Tinubu reportedly expressed appreciation for U.S. support in security efforts across West Africa, while Biden acknowledged Africa’s growing global significance, hinting at potential backing for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council.
Biden conveyed U.S. support for stronger African representation within the UN, with Nigeria seen as a candidate for a permanent seat on the Council, underscoring the significance of U.S.-Nigeria cooperation on various fronts, including law enforcement and regional security.
Sani’s appeal has sparked discussions on the possibility of extending humanitarian considerations to Nigerians detained abroad, aligning with growing calls for Africa’s increased role on the world stage.
