- Safiu Kehinde
The Federal Government has denied approving a secondary school history textbook allegedly containing distorted information about Yoruba history.
This is coming after a civil society group under the aegis of Concerned Yoruba Citizens of Yoruba Origin and Supporters Of Truth, petitioned the Ministry of Education over the historical inaccuracies contained in the book authored by Tony and Ijeoma Duru and published by Tones publishers.
The group, in the petition issued by its National Chairman, Abayomi Odunowo, noted that the publication contained claims regarding the founding of Ile-lfe which were described by the group as misleading and potentially harmful to national unity.
In reaction, the Ministry of Education, in a statement issued by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folashade, disclosed that the textbook was never commissioned or approved for use.
“The Ministry wishes to clarify that the said textbook was not commissioned or approved by the Federal Ministry of Education. It is not among the instructional materials approved for use in public basic education institutions across the country, and the Ministry is not in any way affiliated with the publication.” The ministry’s spokesperson wrote.
While commending the group for raising concern over the misleading content of the instructional material capable of causing tension, the Boriowo noted that Ministry of Education is not responsible for materials that fall outside its regulatory framework.
She maintained that instructional materials officially endorsed by the Ministry are carefully curated to meet national education standards.
However, the Ministry assured the group that it will work closely with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate the issue.
“The Ministry appreciates the vigilance and concern of stakeholders regarding the potential of such content to misinform learners and provoke ethnic tension.
“While these concerns are valid, it is important to note that the Ministry is not responsible for materials that fall outside its regulatory framework.
“Instructional materials officially endorsed by the Ministry are carefully curated to meet national education standards, they are developed to support effective learning in public Schools, promote literacy, and ensure inclusive, equitable access to quality education throughout Nigeria.
“Nevertheless. given the sensitivity of the matter and its implications for education, cultural identity, and national cohesion, the Ministry will work closely with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate the issue.
“All necessary Steps will be taken to address the anomalies identified and to ensure a fair and timely resolution that respects historical truth and promotes unity.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains fully committed to providing quality, inclusive, and culturally respectful education that fosters peace, understanding, and national development.” The statement read further.