Igbos Condemn Teaching of Only Yoruba Language in Lagos-Owned Schools, Threaten to Sue Sanwo-Olu Government
Igbos Condemn Teaching of Only Yoruba Language in Lagos-Owned Schools, Threaten to Sue Sanwo-Olu Government
Tension is brewing in Lagos as members of the Igbo community have condemned the alleged policy of teaching only the Yoruba language in Lagos State–owned schools. The group described the development as discriminatory, warning that they may take legal action against Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration if the situation is not immediately addressed.
According to reports, several Lagos public schools have reportedly adopted Yoruba as the sole indigenous language of instruction, sidelining other Nigerian languages, including Igbo and Hausa. This move has drawn outrage from non-Yoruba residents, particularly the Igbo community, who argue that the policy undermines Nigeria’s linguistic diversity and violates the principles of inclusivity enshrined in the country’s constitution.
Speaking through the Coalition of Igbo Indigenes in Lagos (CIIL), the group insisted that while Yoruba remains the dominant language of the state, Lagos is also home to millions of other ethnic groups who contribute significantly to its growth and development. They argued that education policies must reflect Lagos’ cosmopolitan nature rather than promote a single ethnic identity.
The group further warned that if the Lagos State Ministry of Education does not review its language policy, they will seek redress in court for what they termed a breach of the Federal Character principle and the right to cultural freedom.
Meanwhile, education stakeholders have called for calm, urging dialogue between the government and community leaders. They advised the Sanwo-Olu administration to consider introducing a more inclusive framework that accommodates Nigeria’s linguistic diversity, especially in a multi-ethnic city like Lagos.
As debates continue, many parents and educators are calling for a balanced approach that promotes Yoruba culture while respecting the identities of other ethnic groups residing in the state
