Culture is not content… Respect is the first protocol.

Not every place is for clout. Not every moment is for content.

The visit of a TikToker to the palace of the revered Oba of Benin has sparked conversations and rightly so. While promoting culture through platforms like TikTok is powerful and necessary in today’s world, intention alone is not enough.

The Benin Palace is not just a tourist attraction it is a sacred institution rooted in centuries of tradition under the authority of the Benin Kingdom. There are protocols. There is order. There is respect.

Yes, we must amplify our culture globally.

Yes, the youth must tell our stories.

Now, with reports of a royal figure being questioned and a summons issued, this goes beyond content creation it becomes a matter of accountability and preservation of heritage.

Let this be clear:

Influence does not override institution.

Virality does not replace values.

If we truly want to showcase our culture to the world, then we must first learn to honor it the right way.

What do you think—promotion or protocol b

reach? Let’s talk.