The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following reports of his marriage in the United States.
In a statement titled Decree of Suspension dated January 16, 2025, the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, confirmed the suspension.
According to the statement, Fr. Oghenerukevwe reportedly married Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024. The event, captured on video, has since circulated widely on social media.
The church noted that this act violates Canon Law, leading to an automatic Latae Sententiae suspension.
The statement reads:
“Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, hereby officially decrees that Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.
“On November 30, 2024, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe, who has been inactive and without an official assignment in the United States, contacted the diocese requesting to be released from his canonical obligations and responsibilities as a priest.
“The Diocese of Warri followed up, requesting the necessary documents to initiate the process. However, on December 29, 2024, Fr. Oghenerukevwe proceeded to marry Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, an act that violates Canon 1394 §1.
“By this action, he has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension, effective immediately. Consequently, he is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri.
“He retains the right to request the revocation or amendment of this decree in accordance with Canon 1734 §1, provided he demonstrates a genuine desire for reconciliation.
“May God grant him the grace to reflect and find the path to reconciliation,” the statement concluded.
The diocese emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the priesthood and adherence to Canon Law.
