Ile-Ife Founding: FG  Disassociates Self From Alleged Distorted History Text Book 

By;  ARCHIBONG ESUENE,  Abuja 

The Federal Ministry of Education said that its  attention 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 according to the Ministry of Education,  raises concerns over alleged historical inaccuracies in a history textbook authored by Tony and Ijeoma Duru, published by Tones Publishers. 

According to the ministry, the Concerned Citizens of Yoruba Origin and Supporters of Truth said that the publication   contains claims regarding the founding of Ile-Ife that have been described as misleading and potentially harmful to national unity.

Following the controversy, ” 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  however appreciated the concerns 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.”

Mrs Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education said 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”.

 Given the sensitivity of the matter and its implications for education, cultural identity, and national cohesion, she said the Ministry will work closely with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate the issue.

Speaking further, the Director said the Federal Ministry of Education remains fully committed to providing quality, inclusive, and culturally respectful education that fosters peace, understanding, and national development, pointing out that steps will be taken address the anomalies identified and to ensure a fair and timely resolution that respects historical truth and promotes unity.