The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State has suspended Reverend Father Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from all priestly duties due to allegations of his secret marriage in the United States. The suspension was announced through an official statement titled “Decree of Suspension,” dated January 16, 2025, which was shared with journalists in Warri on Sunday.
The statement, signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, disclosed that Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, Texas. The event reportedly became public knowledge after footage of the ceremony circulated widely on social media, prompting immediate action by the church authorities.
As per the statement, “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 diocese revealed that the priest had formally requested, on November 30, 2024, to be released from all canonical obligations associated with his priesthood. However, the church emphasized that he failed to provide the required documentation to initiate the process. Instead, he went ahead with the marriage without following the proper procedures.
Due to this breach, the diocese has prohibited Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe from presenting himself as a Catholic priest in any capacity. The church cited Canon 1333 as the basis for the immediate implementation of the suspension.
While the suspension remains in effect, the church noted that Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to request a review or amendment of the decree. However, such a request must include a commitment to reform and adhere to the church’s guidelines.
The diocese expressed hope for reconciliation, stating, “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation.”
