The Lagos State Government has ordered the withdrawal of a controversial Nursery 2 English textbook that sparked outrage on social media over alleged inappropriate content, insisting that the publication was never approved for use in public schools across the state.
The clarification was made on Wednesday by the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education following the circulation of a viral video highlighting concerns about the content of English Foundation for Nursery Schools, Volume 2, written by Ayengbe J.B.E. and published by JN Publishing & Marketing Enterprise.
According to the ministry, in a statement issued by Mrs Basirat Lawal, Director, Public Affairs
Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education
Alausa, Ikeja.
the textbook, which was reportedly purchased from a school in Ojo Local Government Area as part of recommended instructional materials, was not among the books approved by the Lagos State Government for use in public schools.
The ministry said it immediately reviewed the concerns raised after becoming aware of the issue and launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the book’s distribution and use.
As part of the process, the ministry’s Legal Unit was directed to engage relevant stakeholders and ensure that due process was followed in resolving the matter.
The government also addressed reports that the parent who drew public attention to the controversial content was allegedly subjected to intimidation and victimisation.
The ministry stressed that parents and other stakeholders have a legitimate right to raise concerns about educational materials and the welfare of children without fear of harassment or reprisals.
“Every parent and stakeholder has the right to raise genuine concerns regarding the education and welfare of children without fear of harassment, intimidation or victimisation,” the ministry stated.
Following discussions with the author and publisher, the Lagos State Government directed that all copies of the textbook distributed to schools within the state be withdrawn immediately.
The ministry disclosed that the author subsequently complied with the directive and submitted a formal written apology, acknowledging the concerns raised and admitting the need for greater diligence in the development, review and distribution of educational materials intended for young learners.
The government said the matter has now been satisfactorily resolved, with corrective measures already implemented and the publication removed from circulation in the affected schools.
Reaffirming its commitment to quality education, the ministry said it would continue to strengthen monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance mechanisms to ensure that only approved and age-appropriate instructional materials are used in schools across Lagos.
It also commended parents, educators, school administrators and members of the public for their vigilance, urging stakeholders to verify instructional materials through appropriate channels and promptly report concerns requiring government intervention.
