Barr. Darlington: Why Some Groups Still Reject Education in Nigeria

Legal practitioner and public affairs analyst, Barrister Darlington, has expressed deep concern over what he described as a deliberate rejection of education by certain groups in society, insisting that ignorance should no longer be excused or celebrated. Speaking on Voice of the People (VOP) TV, the lawyer said that the decision to turn away from education is a personal choice that has far-reaching consequences, not just for individuals but for the entire nation.

During his appearance on the popular morning show, Barr. Darlington argued that while governments at various levels have made efforts to promote education through free schooling, scholarship programs, and community initiatives, many people still consciously choose to remain uneducated, often under the influence of cultural, religious, or political factors.

“It’s not anyone’s fault when a group chooses to reject education,” he stated. “When people deliberately turn away from knowledge, they are equally rejecting progress, empowerment, and a better future. You cannot blame others for the setbacks that come from ignorance.”

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He went on to criticize the mindset of some communities that discourage modern education, pointing out that such attitudes are among the major reasons Nigeria continues to struggle with insecurity, unemployment, and underdevelopment. According to him, ignorance fuels manipulation, and those who reject learning often become tools in the hands of oppressive leaders or extremist ideologies.

Darlington explained that education goes beyond classroom learning, emphasizing that true education involves developing the ability to think, question, and make informed decisions. He maintained that societies that embrace critical thinking and knowledge will always advance faster than those that glorify ignorance.

“Education is not just about sitting in a classroom or holding a certificate. It’s about understanding the world, questioning what you’re told, and contributing positively to your society. When we choose to reject that, we choose darkness over light,” he said.

The lawyer also called on parents, community leaders, and religious institutions to play active roles in changing the narrative. He urged media platforms like Voice of the People (VOP) to continue driving public enlightenment and awareness on the value of education, saying the media remains one of the strongest instruments for national reorientation.

“Platforms like VOP are doing a great job by creating space for conversations that challenge societal backwardness. We must continue to use the media to promote the right values, especially among young people,” Darlington added.

His remarks have since gone viral on social media, sparking a heated debate among listeners and online audiences. Many praised his courage to speak on such a sensitive issue, while others argued that the government still bears some responsibility for failing to make education attractive and accessible to all.

Nonetheless, Barrister Darlington maintained that while the system has its flaws, individuals and communities must still take responsibility for their choices. “No nation can grow beyond the mindset of its people. If we continue to reject education, we are rejecting development itself,” he concluded.