The Catholic Diocese of Warri, Delta State, has officially suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from his priestly duties after revelations surfaced that he had secretly married a woman in the United States.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 16, 2025, titled “Decree of Suspension,” the Diocese confirmed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s suspension follows evidence of his marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA.
The incident came to light after footage of the wedding was widely circulated on social media.
The statement, jointly signed by the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, clarified that Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s actions violated the laws of the Catholic Church.
As a result, he has been placed under a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with Canon 1394 §1, meaning he is prohibited from performing any sacred ministry within the diocese.
The Diocese further explained that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had previously requested a release from his canonical obligations as a priest on November 30, 2024.
However, his request had not been processed when he went ahead with the marriage, breaching the Church’s protocols.
Despite requests from the Diocese for formal documentation to process his departure from the priesthood, no response was received before the wedding took place.
As stated in the decree, Fr. Oghenerukevwe is now prohibited from presenting himself as a priest in any capacity within the Catholic Diocese of Warri.
The Church emphasized that all canonical implications of his suspension take effect immediately.
However, Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of the suspension, provided he demonstrates a willingness to reform.
The statement concluded with a prayer for his reflection and reconciliation: “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation.”
This suspension has drawn significant attention as the Catholic Church reinforces its commitment to upholding the sanctity of priestly vows and Church laws.