Nigeria: MI Abaga, Tangerine Life launch #EndSARS fund

The initiative includes the sale of insurance policies and doubles up as a relief fund for protesters who suffered losses during the #EndSARS protests.

Tangerine Life is a Nigerian insurance company and the initiative kicked off with a ₦2m ($5 200) cash injection from the firm. The establishment also pledged to match 50% of all life insurance policies purchased as an additional donation to the fund.

“This means you can protect the ones you love while also helping those who are dealing with loss,” MI Abaga said. “I know that the last few weeks have been difficult for all of us. My heart breaks when I think about all that we have lost. Amidst it all, there comes the opportunity for us to be the light for others in these dark times. We can make sure that no one is left behind. Together, we’re going to support the victims of this tragedy.”

MI Abaga is among the Nigerian musicians who have lent their voices towards the nationwide campaign against police misconduct, which began in early October following a video that emerged of police officers allegedly killing a man and stealing his car in Ughelli. The musician also joined peaceful protestors at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos a few days before security forces opened fire on demonstrators.

In a recent article published on Al Jazeera, MI Abaga called for the momentum gathered from the protests to be channelled to a lasting political movement.

“Too many people are tired of the divisions the old ruling class have created and eager to move past them. Those who lost their lives in Lekki, and everyone else who have taken to the streets, deserve nothing less,” he said.