Governor says critics will regret criticising Ministry of Happiness

Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, has asked for patience for his newly-created Ministry of Happiness and Purpose Fulfillment, saying that critics will be shocked at the ministrys success and regret condemning it.

The governor's decision to name his sister, Ogechi Ololo, as the Commissioner for the new ministry has been heavily criticised by Nigerians on social media since the announcement on Monday, December 4, 2017.

In a press statement signed by the governor's Chief Press Secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo, on Thursday, December 7, 2017, he said the idea for the ministry was well thought-out before it was created for the benefit of Imo people.

The statement read, "At the end of the day, the achievements of the new Ministry of Happiness and Purpose Fulfillment will be so amazing that the critics of the initiative, will not only be shocked but will also regret to have drawn the curtain for the new Ministry even before it takes off.

"We accept all the criticisms in good faith and commend the critics. That is what makes the society dynamic and our democracy juicy. The truth is that, the new Ministry is not an accidental discharge but a well-thought out idea that will benefit Imo people in particular and all men and women of goodwill in general. We only ask the critics to give us time."

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In an earlier statement on Tuesday, December 5, the governor had explained that he created the ministry because people are still bitter and angry at government policies.

"Governments at different levels have created several ministries and departments to achieve this, yet people are bitter, angry with hate speeches which lead to crisis, war and even terrorism.

"Happiness and Purpose Ministry therefore, is established for the lost time to correct the policy framework to guide Ministries and Departments on what they must do to guarantee the citizens happiness and contribute better to the society," he said.