The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following reports of his marriage in the United States.
The suspension was announced in a statement titled “Decree of Suspension,” dated January 16, 2025, and jointly signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo.
According to the statement, Fr. Oghenerukevwe allegedly married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. The ceremony’s footage was widely circulated on social media, prompting the church’s response.
The diocese explained that the priest’s actions incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension, as outlined by Canon Law.
“By this act, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in line with Canon 1394 §1,” the statement read. “As Bishop of Warri, I officially decree his suspension from the exercise of sacred ministry. He is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity.”
The church disclosed that in November 2024, Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested to be released from his canonical obligations as a priest.
However, before the process could be completed, he proceeded with the marriage, violating the sacred commitments of the priesthood.
The diocese emphasized that Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to appeal the suspension if he shows genuine willingness to reconcile and reform.
“May God grant him the grace to reflect on his actions and guide him toward reconciliation,” the church concluded.
The suspension takes immediate effect, with all associated canonical implications now enforced.
READ ALSO:
- Alison-Madueke’s loot: SERAP writes Trump, seeks ban on corrupt officials
- NFF Steps Up Plans For CAF B-License Coaching Course
- “Breathe in, breathe out, Nigeria,” by Hassan Gimba
- Falana urges INEC to halt by-elections
- Trump arrives in Washington ahead of Monday’s inauguration
