The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from his priestly functions following his reported marriage in the United States.
This information was released in a statement titled ‘Decree of Suspension’, dated Thursday, January 16, 2025, with copies distributed to journalists in Warri on Sunday.
The statement, co-signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, claimed that “Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA.”
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 S1, and I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry,” the statement said.
Reports indicate that a video of the marriage, which allegedly circulated widely on social media, led the church to take action.
The Diocese disclosed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had sought to be released from all canonical responsibilities related to Holy Orders on November 30, 2024.
However, the Diocese said they contacted him “requesting the necessary documents to initiate the process, but the priest proceeded to marry without finalising the required steps.”
The Diocese added that Fr. Oghenerukevwe has the right to appeal the decree for revocation or modification but must show a genuine willingness to reform.
