Toke Makinwa, a prominent media personality, recently expressed strong criticism against the traditional practice of using tribal marks as a means of identification. In a post on her X account dated June 16, 2024, she reflected on seeing a beauty influencer with tribal marks, which stirred her thoughts on the historical practice.
Makinwa condemned the practice as a form of cruelty imposed on children without their consent. She wrote, “Marking a child without his/her consent as a means of identification is Evil, I know our parents didn’t know any better but damnnnn!!!!”
In subsequent posts, Makinwa reiterated her stance, clarifying that her issue is not with the beauty of tribal marks themselves but with the lack of consent involved in marking children. She acknowledged that while her grandmother also had tribal marks, she is relieved that the practice has been abolished. She shared, “Thank God it’s abolished now. My grandma had tribal marks too. Some on her face and her arms, I wonder what life was like when she was younger walking around with it, though I’m sure a lot of people around her had the same but thank God it’s cancelled now.”
Responding to criticism on X, Makinwa emphasized that her disapproval is rooted in the absence of consent for such permanent markings, distinguishing tribal marks from tattoos which are a personal choice. She defended her position by stating, “Tattoos are a choice, marking a child without their consent is not the same.”
Makinwa’s outspoken critique highlights her advocacy for individual autonomy and her acknowledgment of cultural shifts that have moved away from practices that impose permanent alterations on individuals without their say. Her posts sparked discussions on X about cultural practices and the importance of respecting personal autonomy, particularly in matters concerning physical identity.