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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has explained that traditional tribal marks served as a form of identification in the past, particularly during the era of the slave trade.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has spoken about the historical significance of tribal marks among the Yoruba people, explaining that the markings were used as a means of identifying people and their communities.

Obasanjo made the remarks while appearing on the “Curiosity Made Me Ask” podcast, where he discussed the origins and traditional purpose of tribal marks.

According to the former President, tribal marks helped people recognise members of their own communities, particularly at a time when individuals could be separated from their families and taken to different locations.

“Tribal marks in those old days were used so that people, even when they were sold into slavery, could identify their own people. That is the purpose of tribal mark,” Obasanjo said.

He also spoke about the prevalence of tribal marks among Yoruba people in the past, making a humorous observation about those who did not have the traditional markings.

“If you are a Yoruba man and you don’t have tribal mark, you must be very poor, because you no get money to make mark,” he said.

Historically, Yoruba tribal marks served several social and cultural purposes, including identifying a person’s community, family or lineage. Research on the practice also indicates that tribal marks were used for beautification and other cultural reasons before and during the colonial period.

The marks differed from one community to another, with distinct patterns associated with different Yoruba groups. Some of the known styles include Owu, Pele, Gombo or Kẹkẹ, Abaja, Ture and Mande.

The practice became particularly significant as a means of identification during the period of the slave trade, when people could be separated from their families and communities. Historical accounts note that facial markings could help individuals identify their ethnic or community origins after separation.

Obasanjo, who himself bears Owu tribal marks, has previously spoken about the marks as an important part of his cultural identity.

His latest comments have renewed interest in the history and cultural significance of traditional markings, many of which have become less common in contemporary Nigerian society.