The Federal Ministry of Education has issued a formal statement in response to a petition alleging historical inaccuracies in a textbook said to distort Yoruba history. The petition, titled “Petition to Defend Yoruba History from Ethnic Distortion in Nigerian Textbooks”, was submitted by the Concerned Citizens of Yoruba Origin and Supporters of Truth, led by their National Chairman, Otunba Abayomi Odunowo.

The textbook in question, authored by Tony and Ijeoma Duru and published by Tones Publishers, reportedly contains misleading claims regarding the origins of Ile-Ife. The Ministry clarified that the publication was neither commissioned, authored, nor approved by the Ministry and is not part of the instructional materials used in public schools across Nigeria.

In the press release, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Ministry acknowledged the importance of vigilance by stakeholders in safeguarding educational content. It emphasized that while concerns about potential ethnic tension are valid, the Ministry cannot be held responsible for materials that fall outside its official regulatory framework.

The Ministry assured the public that only materials that meet national education standards are approved for use in schools. These materials are designed to promote literacy, support effective learning, and ensure equitable access to quality education nationwide.

Given the cultural and national implications of the issue, the Ministry pledged to collaborate closely with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and other relevant agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly. It assured that appropriate steps would be taken to resolve the matter in a way that respects historical truth and promotes national unity.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to delivering inclusive, respectful, and culturally sensitive education that fosters peace, understanding, and national development.