Governor says he created Ministry of Happiness because people are bitter

Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, has offered explanations for why he created a Ministry of Happiness and Purpose Fulfilment, saying that people are still bitter and angry at government policies.

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 his Chief Press Secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo, on Tuesday, December 5, 2017, the governor said he's trying to guarantee happiness for the people of Imo State.

The statement read, "The real essence of life is to be happy and to fulfill one's purpose in life. Government officials are elected to address this. This is the very reason people elect their leaders to guarantee their happiness and purpose fulfillment.

"There is no activity of mankind that is not geared towards providing happiness. Unfortunately, this vital element of our social lives has not been properly addressed.

"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.

"In today's world, especially in our country, millions of people are not fulfilling their purpose in life because of lack of mentorship and guidance. There is complete talent abuse as people no longer engage in life activities suitable to their talents.

"Sometimes in university environments, students are meant to study courses they ordinarily would like to do. This has given rise to why we have people who are favoured, do work against their natural will just to survive.

"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."

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Onwuemeodo also explained why the new ministry had been mistakenly announced as the Ministry of Happiness and Couples Fulfilment.

"There was a typographic error in the first statement issued on the swearing in of the new commissioners. The word "Couple" was inadvertently written, instead of the word "Purpose", we regret that," he said.