No reports specific to the significance of three horizontal lines on the stomach could be found among the sources consulted by the Research Directorate. However, the following information may be of interest.

The Austin American-Statesman reports that "the Tiv, in Nigeria, have a highly developed aesthetic of facial and body scarring, used extensively by both men and women to bring out each individual's most attractive features" (27 Jan. 2000).

According to Raven Rowanchilde

the Tiv of Nigeria value women with raised scars as mates because they consider scarified women more sexually demanding and therefore, more likely to bear more children. Unmarried Tiv women with well marked bellies are teased a lot because the Tiv word for belly design also means "sexual lust." The Tiv claim the raised scars stay sensitive for many years and they produce erotic sensations in both men and women when touched or stroked (1993).

Facial scarification is reportedly practised by the Yoruba [Ondo and Oyo] (Awake 8 Jan. 1999). "Vertical marks, one on each cheek, identify Ondo men and women. Three horizontal marks on each cheek identify the Oyo people. To those literate in markings, a mere glance at someone's face is sufficient to read that person's ethnic group, town, or even family" (ibid.).

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Austin American Statesman. 27 January 2000. Elizabeth Austin. "Marks of Mystery: People Respond to Scars with fear, Revulsion--." (NEXIS)

Awake. 8 January 1999. "Facial Marks: Nigeria's Fading 'Identity Card." http://www.watchtower.org/library/g/1999/1/8/article_01.htm [Accessed 8 Oct. 2002]

Rowanchilde, Raven [Toronto]. 1993. "Cross Cultural Body Modification: A Literature Review" http://bmazine.com/ritual/970101/cc002.html [Accessed 8 Oct. 2002]

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