The Catholic Church in the Diocese of Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties after reports emerged that he secretly got married in the United States.
In a statement signed by the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Diocesan Secretary, Fr. Clement Abobo, on January 16, 2025, the Diocese announced that Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at Streams of Joy Church in Dallas.
The wedding was exposed through videos shared on social media by the bride’s relative, prompting the Diocese to take action.
The statement read: “Due to his actions, Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe is hereby suspended from priestly duties as stipulated by Canon 1394 §1. I, Bishop Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, officially declare his suspension from all priestly activities.”
The Diocese also mentioned that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested to be relieved of his priestly duties on November 30, 2024, but failed to submit the required documents before proceeding with the wedding.
“As a result, he is stripped of all rights and privileges associated with being a priest of the Diocese of Warri. All legal consequences take effect immediately,” the statement added.
The Diocese concluded by stating that Fr. Oghenerukevwe has the right to appeal for a reversal or annulment of the decision, provided he shows genuine repentance.
