Media personality Toke Makinwa has strongly criticized the traditional practice of using tribal marks as a means of identification.
She called it a form of cruelty inflicted upon children without their consent.
In a post on her X account on June 16, 2024, Makinwa recounted a recent meeting with an influencer who had tribal marks.
This encounter led her to reflect on the ancient practice.
Toke Makinwa’s assertion that placing tribal marks on a child without consent is evil has ignited an important conversation about the practice’s implications.
Tribal marks is a longstanding cultural tradition in many African communities.
It carry significant historical and cultural weight.
However, the modern perspective raises critical concerns about the effects of tribal marks.
Physical Impact
Tribal marking involves making incisions on the skin, often on the face, and inserting substances to create permanent scars.
The procedure of markings on young children, often performed with non-sterile instruments, can lead to serious infections, pain, trauma, and scarring.
People Also Read: Pastor Adeboye : Eadris Questions Silence Of Religious Leaders
While some may view their marks with pride as symbols of cultural identity, others may feel stigmatized or ashamed, especially in contexts where such marks are not the norm.
Psychological Impact
Forced tribal marks can cause emotional trauma, resentment, and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, especially when accompanied by bullying or discrimination.
Also, It can significantly impact an individual’s social experiences, fostering cultural identity and pride within their community.
Social Impact
However, they may also face discrimination and stigma, impacting their social interactions, educational opportunities and employment prospects especially in urban or cosmopolitan settings.
However, to tackle tribal marks, a comprehensive approach is needed, including raising awareness about their physical, psychological, and social impacts.
Also, advocating for children’s rights, and promoting alternative cultural expressions that do not involve physical harm to preserve cultural heritage and individual rights.
Cholera Outbreak Hit Nigeria, 15 Death Confirmed In Lagos
<
