The article discusses the unrealistic expectations placed on married couples to live harmoniously without conflict, despite coming from different backgrounds and upbringings. The author argues that even siblings raised together have disagreements, yet society and mass media perpetuate the myth of the perfect marriage. The author emphasizes that all marriages have their challenges and that no union is perfect. The narrative suggests that couples are merely trying their best and adapting as they go. The author encourages individuals to focus on their own marriages and not to compare themselves to others, as everyone's experience is unique and complex. The conclusion is a reassuring message that it's normal to face difficulties in marriage and that one should work on their relationship without being influenced by external appearances of perfection.

The article criticizes the Nigerian police force, @PoliceNG, for its reliance on tactical squads, which the author believes are outdated and harmful. The author argues that the police system in Nigeria is in dire need of reform, as it operates on a culture of impunity and prejudicial profiling, particularly against the youth. The piece suggests that the police should adopt intelligence-driven methods, as seen in countries often labeled as police states, rather than continue with their current oppressive practices. The author also condemns the behavior of an officer who felt threatened by an iPhone, stating that such attitudes are common among the majority of the police force and contribute to a culture of oppression.

In this personal reflection, journalist Chima Nwankwo recounts an experience where they failed to record an interview after completing a media training course. Despite checking all technical aspects, Nwankwo accidentally stopped the recording before starting the interview. Upon discovering the mistake, they were able to redo the interview by telling the guest that some questions had been forgotten. Nwankwo reflects on the harsh reaction they would have had if someone else had made the same mistake, and concludes with a reminder that everyone makes mistakes and that it's important to be forgiving of oneself because we are all human.

The trial of Biafran separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu in Nigeria is set to resume in secrecy as ordered by Justice Binta Nyako, raising concerns among rights groups and Kanu's defense. Kanu, who was arrested in 2015, faces charges of criminal conspiracy and treason. His prolonged detention has sparked protests and violence, with Amnesty International reporting at least 150 pro-Biafra activists killed by the military since August 2015. The state argues witness protection is necessary, but Kanu's lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, demands an open trial. Kanu, formerly head of the banned Radio Biafra, advocates for the restoration of the Republic of Biafra, a sensitive issue in Nigeria due to the civil war from 1967 to 1970. President Muhammadu Buhari opposes independence for the region. Kanu could face the death penalty if convicted.

Nigerian labor groups, including the Nigeria Labor Congress, are proceeding with a planned strike in response to a 70 percent increase in gasoline prices, despite a court injunction against such action. The increase resulted from the government's removal of a fuel subsidy, intended to address Nigeria's economic crisis and fund fuel imports. Talks between the government and labor unions have broken down. The government, through secretary David Babachir Lawal, has urged workers to respect the law and avoid the illegal strike. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo explained the necessity of the price hike due to the lack of foreign currency for fuel imports. The country's reliance on oil sales for income and the fixed exchange rate policy to protect reserves have been highlighted amidst this crisis.

The second annual Keffi polo tournament was held in Nigeria with 16 teams participating. Despite polo being perceived as a sport for the wealthy, the event attracted about 3,000 fans. The semifinals featured a match between the 5th Chukker Polo Club of Kaduna and the Kano Titans, with Kaduna emerging victorious. Argentinian player Manuel Crespo and South African referee Clive Mullman shared their thoughts on the sport, emphasizing its accessibility and the thrill of playing. The rules of polo prioritize safety, with players changing horses every seven-and-a-half minutes. Nigerian player Khalifa Ibrahim expressed his comfort on horseback despite the sport's inherent dangers. The 5th Chukkers won the tournament, and the Keffi Polo Ranch owners stated that the event's proceeds would go to charity.

The article reports on the gathering of the Bring Back Our Girls movement in Abuja, Nigeria, marking two years since Boko Haram kidnapped 219 schoolgirls from Chibok. A new video has surfaced, showing 15 of the girls, which has renewed hopes for their rescue. Esther Yakubu, a mother of one of the missing girls, and Obiageli Ezekwesili, the founder of the movement, expressed their belief that the girls will be returned. The article criticizes the Nigerian government's response, noting that if the girls were from influential families, more effort would have been made. President Muhammadu Buhari, who is currently in China, has made efforts to negotiate with Boko Haram but to no avail. The article also touches on the international response to the kidnapping and the ongoing violence caused by Boko Haram.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has reported a disturbing rise in the use of children by Boko Haram militants to carry out suicide bombings, with 44 children involved in 2015 compared to four in 2014. The majority of these children are girls, and they are often sent into crowded areas, causing fear and suspicion among survivors. Nigeria's defense spokesman, General Rabe Abubakar, notes the various disguises used by these bombers. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has also highlighted the impact of Boko Haram on education, with over 600 teachers killed and nearly 1 million children lacking access to education. The report comes ahead of the anniversary of the Chibok schoolgirls' kidnapping, with many still missing. UNICEF's regional director, Manuel Fontaine, emphasizes the importance of viewing these children as victims, not perpetrators, and expresses concern over the increasing stigma faced by those associated with Boko Haram.