The author of the controversial Lagos nursery school textbook has responded to criticism following a viral video that condemned the content as inappropriate for young learners. Ayengbe Ebhohimen JB, the writer of the book, defended his work and criticized the manner in which the complaint was made public, stating that concerns could have been addressed directly instead of being taken to social media. He noted that his contact details were clearly provided in the book for engagement.
Lagos State Government Disowns the Textbook
The Lagos state government had earlier distanced itself from the textbook, confirming that it was not among the approved instructional materials for schools. The government announced an investigation into the matter, further fueling the debate over the suitability of the content for nursery pupils.
Writer Defends Content Amid Growing Criticism
Ebhohimen insisted that the story should not be viewed as harmful. He argued that objections to the passage reflect differences in opinion rather than a clear violation of standards. He also rejected claims that the material could negatively affect children. However, his response has done little to calm public reaction, as parents and education stakeholders continue to question the suitability of the content for nursery pupils.
Graphic Storyline Sparks Concern Among Parents
The passage at the center of the controversy tells the story of an old man who punished his dog after a piece of meat went missing. In the narrative, the man heated an iron and placed it on the animal's nose, causing severe pain and forcing the dog to flee. Critics argue that such imagery introduces violence in a manner that is not appropriate for early childhood education. Many parents believe that exposing young children to such scenes could shape their understanding of discipline and conflict in harmful ways.
Nigerians React to Writer's Statement
The statement made by the controversial textbook's author did not sit well with many Nigerians online. Below are some responses to the writer's reaction:
- @_keepgoingat_it said: This clearly shows the failure of the state educational boards as well as the federal, they should have addressed the issue immediately. And this new trend of victimising critics or reviewers of products is appalling. One would think the govt will take this serious.
- @swycatl said: I am not surprised with the story in that book and reports of the author harassing and intimidating the reviewer. Look at the author looking like a hardened criminal. His book shouldn't see the light of day, for teaching children how to be cruel to animals.
- @Greener_Oba said: This is the problem we are facing today, This old folks don't believe that their wrongs are wrongs, They want to be right 24/7. He better no write another book. Before we go read rubbish for children of 5years.
- @EnigmaCutz said: One of the reason I will chose home teaching for my kids than going to school to learn things like this Same way we have intelligent old men and vice versa.
- @obiak53997 said: You will learn a lesson! These old people really have to be reorientated on how things work now. They really feel we are still in the 90s.
Federal Government Denies Approving History Textbook Without Igbo
In a related development, the Federal Ministry of Education has denied approving the Living History textbook, which reportedly excluded Igbo content. Officials clarified that the book had not been authorized for use in any Nigerian school.
