Education Ministry Disowns Controversial History Textbook, Promises Probe Into Alleged Ethnic Distortion
The Federal Ministry of Education has disassociated itself from a history textbook accused of distorting Yoruba history, following a petition submitted by the ‘Concerned Citizens of Yoruba Origin and Supporters of Truth’.
The petition, signed by the group’s National Chairman, Otunba Abayomi Odunowo, flagged what it described as misleading claims in a history textbook authored by Tony and Ijeoma Duru and published by Tones Publishers.
The book reportedly contains controversial assertions about the founding of Ile-Ife, raising fears of ethnic misrepresentation and threats to national unity.
The Ministry of Education in a statement by its Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, clarified that the said textbook was not authored, commissioned, or approved by the Federal Ministry of Education.
According to the statement, the said textbook 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.
In response to the petition, the Ministry said it would collaborate with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate the claims.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Federal Ministry of Education has been drawn to a petition titled ‘Petition to Defend Yoruba History from Ethnic Distortion in Nigerian Textbooks’, submitted by the Concerned Citizens of Yoruba Origin and Supporters of Truth, through its National Chairman, Otunba Abayomi Odunowo.
“The petition raises concerns over alleged historical inaccuracies in a history textbook authored by Tony and Ijeoma Duru, and published by Tones Publishers. The publication is said to contain claims regarding the founding of Ile-Ife that have been described as misleading and potentially harmful to national unity.
“The Ministry wishes to clarify that the said textbook was not authored, 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 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.”
