The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State, Nigeria, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from his priestly duties following his alleged marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in the United States.
In a statement titled “Decree of Suspension,” dated January 16, 2025, and made public on Sunday, the Diocese explained its decision, citing violations of church laws. The statement was jointly signed by Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the Bishop of Warri, and Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, the Chancellor/Notary. It confirmed that the marriage took place on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, Texas.
“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 read.
The Diocese explained that the suspension means Fr. Oghenerukevwe is barred from performing any priestly functions or presenting himself as a Catholic priest in any capacity. Canon 1333 was invoked to enforce the suspension immediately.
The Church stated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had written to the Diocese on November 30, 2024, requesting to be released from his priestly obligations under Holy Orders. However, the Diocese said he failed to complete the formal process before entering into marriage.
“We reached out to him, asking for the required documents to begin the process, but the priest went on to marry without completing the procedure,” the Diocese revealed in the statement.
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The suspension comes after footage of the wedding circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage among members of the Catholic community.
The Diocese clarified that Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to appeal for the revocation or amendment of the decree but must demonstrate a genuine willingness to reconcile with the Church.
“May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation,” the statement concluded.
The incident has drawn mixed reactions from Catholics in Warri and beyond, with some expressing disappointment in the priest’s actions and others calling for compassion and understanding. The Diocese has called for prayers as it navigates this challenging situation.