The Catholic Diocese of Warri, Delta State, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following his alleged marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah, which reportedly took place in the United States.
The suspension was announced in a statement titled Decree of Suspension, dated Thursday, January 16, 2025, and signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo. Copies of the document were shared with journalists on Sunday in Warri.
The statement disclosed that the priest entered into matrimony on December 29, 2024, at Streams of Joy Church, Dallas, USA. It noted that video footage of the ceremony, which circulated on social media, prompted the church’s swift action.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 S1,” Bishop Ewherido stated. “I hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.”
The diocese revealed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had previously submitted a request on November 30, 2024, seeking to be released from his priestly obligations.
However, the church noted that the priest failed to complete the necessary processes before entering into marriage.
“We reached out to him asking for the required documents to begin the procedure, but he proceeded with the marriage without following due process,” the diocese explained.
As a result, the suspension prohibits Fr. Oghenerukevwe from presenting himself as a priest in any capacity within the Catholic Diocese of Warri.
The statement clarified that all canonical implications tied to the suspension are effective immediately in line with Canon 1333.
The church also offered the priest an opportunity for recourse. “He retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of this decree, provided he demonstrates a genuine willingness to reform,” the statement said.
In closing, the diocese expressed hope for reconciliation. “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him toward a path of reconciliation,” it concluded.
