The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from his priestly duties after reports emerged that he secretly married in the United States.
The announcement was made in a statement titled Decree of Suspension, dated Thursday, January 16, 2025.
The statement was jointly signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and Chancellor/Notary Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo.
According to the statement, Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. The marriage footage was widely shared on social media.
The Diocese stated that his actions have led to a Latae Sententiae suspension under the church’s Canon Law.
The statement detailed that Oghenerukevwe had previously requested to be released from his canonical duties, having been out of active ministry and without any official assignment in the United States since November 30, 2024.
The Diocese had asked for the necessary documents to begin the process of his release, but on December 29, Oghenerukevwe went ahead with the marriage.
“As a result of this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with Canon 1394 §1,” the statement read. “I hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry and prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity.
All canonical consequences of this suspension are effective immediately (cf. Can. 1333). He may petition for the revocation or modification of this decree in accordance with Canon 1734 §1, should he show a willingness to reform.”
The Diocese concluded with a prayer for Oghenerukevwe, asking that God grant him the grace to reflect on his actions and lead him toward reconciliation.
