By Kamsi Anayo
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has congratulated Most Reverend Peter Ebere Okpaleke, the Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese in Anambra State on his appointment as Cardinal by His Holiness, Pope Francis.
Soludo described the elevation as a befitting reward for the Bishop who over the years, has shown exemplary conduct in the service of God through great personal sacrifices and outstanding contributions to ecumenical services in the Church.
The Governor recalled that only two Africans (including Bishop Okpaleke) are among the 21 Bishops elevated to the rank of Cardinals on 29 May, 2022 preparatory for Pope Francis’ eighth consistory for the creation of new cardinals scheduled to hold on August 27, 2022 adding that Bishop Okpalaeke was the second Cardinal from Anambra State after Francis Cardinal Arinze.
On behalf of the Government and good people of Anambra State, Governor Soludo prayed God to grant Bishop Okpalaeke more strength, sound health and wisdom to excel in his new assignment in the vineyard of God.
Meanwhile, former Governor Peter Obi has congratulated the Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Ebere Okpaleke on his appointment as a Cardinal.
In a congratulatory message issued by Peter Obi media office on Sunday, Obi described Okpaleke’s elevation to the Cardinalate as apposite.
He recalled Okpaleke’s past as an impactful teacher, devoted priest, administrator and Bishop noting that he had always been guided by hard work, godliness and the passion for the good.
“He exemplifies the summit of Christian living,” Obi said.
Obi prayed to God to always bless Bishop Okpaleke sound health so that he would continue to serve the universal Church and the people according to God’s wishes.
He enjoined the just elevated Cardinal to continue remembering Nigeria in his prayers.
Okpaleke’s investiture comes up on 27 August, 2022 at the Vatican.