The Catholic Diocese of Warri, Delta State, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties after evidence emerged of his secret marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in Dallas, United States.
In a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” dated January 16, 2025, the Diocese disclosed that the marriage ceremony took place on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas.
The suspension followed the circulation of footage from the wedding on social media, which prompted the Church’s intervention.
Signed by Bishop Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, the statement confirmed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s actions violated Catholic Church laws, leading to his automatic suspension under Canon 1394 §1.
The statement read: “By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension… and I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.”
It was further revealed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested release from his priestly obligations on November 30, 2024, but failed to complete the formal processes before his controversial marriage.
The Diocese emphasized that he had been asked to submit necessary documents to finalize his exit from priesthood, a directive he ignored.
The statement further outlined the implications of the suspension, stating: “He is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity. All canonical implications associated with this suspension take immediate effect (cf. Can. 1333).”
The Diocese noted that the priest retains the right to petition for a revocation or amendment of the decree, provided he demonstrates a genuine willingness to reform.
“May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation,” the statement concluded.
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