Peter Okpaleke, the Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia, will represent Nigeria as the only elector in the upcoming papal conclave.
He was appointed a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2022 and will play a crucial role in selecting the next pope.
Nigeria has three other cardinals—Francis Arinze (92), John Onaiyekan (81), and Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (88). Although they cannot vote due to age, they will participate in the discussions leading to the conclave’s outcome.
Born on March 1, 1963, in Amesi, Anambra State, Okpaleke has built a remarkable career in the Catholic Church. He became Bishop of Ekwulobia in 2020 after serving briefly as Bishop of Ahiara, where he faced opposition from the local clergy.
Okpaleke’s education began in local schools and continued at the Bigard Memorial Major Seminary, where he studied philosophy and theology. He was ordained a priest in 1990 for the Diocese of Awka.
As a priest, he held various roles, including Financial Administrator, Diocesan Chancellor, and Parish Priest. His extensive pastoral experience spans decades of dedicated service.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. His death has created a vacancy, making it necessary for the College of Cardinals to elect a new pope.
