Of Nigeria’s four cardinals, only one is eligible to vote in the upcoming papal conclave: Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia. At 61, he serves as Nigeria’s lone voice among the global body of papal electors—an appointment that highlights his vital role in both national and international Church affairs. With a Catholic population exceeding 30 million, Nigeria stands as a spiritual powerhouse in Africa. Notably, around 70% of Nigerian Catholics live in the southeastern region, reinforcing the area’s importance as a key stronghold of the faith.
Early Life and Education
Born on 1 March 1963 in Amesi, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria, Peter Ebere Okpaleke began his journey of faith and education in local institutions. In 1983, he entered the prestigious Bigard Memorial Major Seminary, where he pursued philosophy and theology in Ikot-Ekpene and Enugu until 1992.
Priesthood and Ecclesiastical Service
Ordained as a priest of the Diocese of Awka on 22 August 1992, Okpaleke’s pastoral and administrative trajectory was both broad and impactful. He served in numerous capacities, including:
- Assistant Secretary to the Bishop & Procurator of the Bishop’s residence (1992–1995)
- Chaplain at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (1997–1999)
- Financial Administrator of the Diocese of Awka
- Chancellor of the Diocese (2002–2011)
- Judge at the Inter-Diocesan Court of Onitsha (since 2007)
- Parish Priest of Saints John and Paul Parish, Umubele, Awka
He pursued advanced studies in canon law at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome from 1999 to 2002. His scholarly depth and ecclesiastical dedication positioned him as a respected figure within the Church’s administrative and judicial frameworks.
Controversial Appointment to Ahiara Diocese
On 7 December 2012, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Okpaleke as Bishop of Ahiara in Imo State. However, his tenure began under a cloud of ethnic opposition. Many local clergy and laypeople objected, arguing he was not of the Mbaise ethnic group dominant in the area. These tensions escalated, and Okpaleke was prevented from entering the cathedral to assume his post.
Due to the unrest, his episcopal consecration was held outside the diocese on 21 May 2013, at the Major Seminary of Ulakwo, Archdiocese of Owerri. Despite efforts by Pope Francis—including a 30-day ultimatum in 2017 demanding obedience from the dissenting clergy—the situation remained unresolved. On 19 February 2018, Pope Francis accepted Okpaleke’s resignation.
A New Chapter: Bishop of Ekwulobia
In a redemptive twist, Pope Francis appointed Okpaleke the inaugural Bishop of the newly created Diocese of Ekwulobia on 5 March 2020. Located in Anambra State, this diocese was carved from the Diocese of Awka. Okpaleke was installed on 29 April 2020, warmly embraced by the faithful in his native region.
Elevation to the College of Cardinals
Recognizing his steadfast faith and leadership, Pope Francis elevated Peter Ebere Okpaleke to the rank of cardinal during the consistory of 27 August 2022. He was assigned the title of Cardinal-Priest of Ss. Martiri dell’Uganda a Poggio Ameno, making him one of the few Nigerian prelates to receive the red hat.
Legacy and Global Significance
Cardinal Okpaleke’s story is one of perseverance, grace, and redemption. From rejection and ethnic opposition to leading one of Nigeria’s most vibrant dioceses and participating in the Church’s highest decision-making process, his journey reflects the power of faith amid adversity.
As the Catholic Church prepares for a future conclave, Cardinal Okpaleke will represent not just Nigeria, but the hope of millions across Africa—a continent increasingly central to the Church’s mission in the 21st century.
