The Blockchain Association of Kenya (BAK) on Monday urged the Nigerian government to release one of its employees detained in the West African state.
This is after the technology lobby group met with representatives from the Nigerian High Commission in Kenya to plea for the release of Nadeem Anjarwalla.
Nadeem was arrested alongside his American colleague on February 26 after flying to Abuja to meet with the Nigerian government at the government's invitation.
The arrest came at a time when the country was experiencing a foreign exchange crisis which the Nigerian govt attributed to the influence of Binance.
According to BAK, Nadeem, who is Kenyan-British has been detained without charge in Nigeria with his American colleague since February 26.
"The Blockchain Association of Kenya (BAK) is deeply troubled by the recent arrest of Nadeem Anjarwalla, a prominent community member of our association, and a fellow Binance colleague in Nigeria,” read part of a statement by BAK.
“This unfortunate incident occurred after a visit to Nigeria last week with a colleague, upon an invitation for discussions with the government."
While pleading with his release, the lobby group claimed that Nadeem Anjarwalla, was an esteemed member of BAK and a Binance executive and that he was a fervent advocate for responsible engagement with governmental agencies in Kenya, Africa and globally.
“His commitment to fostering positive relationships and constructive dialogue between the blockchain industry and regulatory bodies are commendable,” BAK noted.
On February 28, a Nigerian court approved a two-week detention of the two, pending investigations into their alleged deeds.
On March 13, Binance released a statement vowing to ensure the two individuals arrested in Nigeria are released in a bid to offer a reprieve for their families.
"In light of recent events, we would like to showcase our dedication to promoting the responsible growth of crypto in Nigeria with some facts and numbers," read part of a statement by Binance
"We will continue to work with Nigerian authorities to bring our friends and colleagues home. They are professionals with the highest integrity and we will provide them and their families with all the support we can."
