The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has congratulated Bishop Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, as he canonically receives the red hat from Pope Francis in Rome.

The former governor of Anambra State took to his official Twitter page on Saturday to congratulate Bishop Peter.

He wrote: “I rejoice with His Eminence, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke as he canonically receives the Red Hat from His Holiness, Pope Francis at a Consistory in Rome today, by which function, he has becomee a fully fledged Prince of the Universal Church.

“He has remained a blessing to not just the church in Nigeria, but the universal church. His patience, understanding and wide perspectives on issues remain some of his valuable assets that have continued to propel him higher in the priestly vocation.

“The massive turn out of Nigerians across regions and religions at the event added colour to the day, and reinforced the spirit of love and unity which transcends tribe and religion, and for which Nigeria is known.- PO”.

Bishop Okpaleke becomes the fifth Cardinal from Nigeria. Others before him are Francis Arinze, Anthony Okogie and John Onaiyekan.