The Catholic Diocese of Warri, Delta State, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following allegations that he entered into marriage with a woman in the United States.
The suspension was contained in a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” and dated January 16, 2025. Copies of the statement, signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, were made available to journalists in Warri on Sunday.
The Diocese alleged that Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. Footage of the ceremony reportedly circulated widely on social media, prompting the Church to take action.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 S1,” the statement read.
It added, “I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.”
According to the Diocese, Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested on November 30, 2024, to be released from all canonical obligations associated with Holy Orders.
However, the Diocese said that despite reaching out to him to provide the necessary documents to begin the process, he proceeded with the marriage without completing the formalities.
“As such, he is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity,” the Diocese stated, citing Canon 1333 to emphasize the implications of the suspension.
The Church clarified that the suspension takes immediate effect and bars Fr. Oghenerukevwe from performing any priestly functions or representing himself as a Catholic priest.
The Diocese noted that the suspended priest retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of the decree but must show 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.
