Binance, the popular cryptocurrency exchange, has found itself embroiled in controversy as it faces bribery allegations made by Nigerian government officials. However, the Nigerian government has strongly denied these charges, dismissing them as baseless and a mere attempt by Binance to gain publicity.
The CEO of Binance, Richard Teng, recently claimed that certain Nigerian authorities had demanded a staggering $150 million in cryptocurrency to settle the ongoing legal issues surrounding the company. In response, the federal government of Nigeria has expressed its disapproval of these claims.
The situation has become increasingly contentious, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives. Binance insists that the payment was demanded by Nigerian government officials as a means to resolve the allegations that have been levied against the company. However, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, vehemently denied these allegations.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant to the Minister, released a statement categorizing the allegations as “diversionary” and accusing Binance of attempting to extort the Nigerian government in order to undermine the ongoing criminal investigations against the company.
Furthermore, reports suggest that the Nigerian government is investigating allegations that Binance has been involved in financing terrorism, money laundering, and currency manipulation. Additionally, a high-ranking Binance official, who was under protective custody in Nigeria, has managed to escape and is now being sought by Interpol.
The Nigerian officials argue that Binance is being targeted with bribery claims as part of a larger international conspiracy to discredit their government. The statement released by the government also emphasized that Binance, facing criminal charges and investigations in the US, is resorting to spreading false accusations and defamation in the media in an attempt to clear its name in Nigeria.
In a recent development in the US, the government referenced a case in which Binance’s founder and former CEO was sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to some of the crimes under investigation in Nigeria.
In other cryptocurrency news, it has been revealed that 18 G20 nations have emerged as hubs for crypto enthusiasts, indicating the growing popularity and acceptance of cryptocurrencies worldwide.