The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from his priestly duties after he got married in secret in the United States. The suspension was announced in a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” dated January 16, 2025.
According to the statement, Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. The marriage was reportedly shared on social media, prompting the church to take action.²
The Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, stated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s actions incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension, prohibiting him from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity.
It’s worth noting that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested to be released from his canonical obligations on November 30, 2024, but went ahead with the marriage without completing the necessary procedures.
Source: Punch
