The Bishop of Warri Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, has issued a formal decree suspending Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from the exercise of sacred ministry after he entered into marriage. The suspension follows a significant breach of Canon law by the priest.
According to a statement issued by the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into marriage with Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024. The footage of the marriage was widely circulated on social media, drawing attention to the priest’s actions.
The statement clarified that by entering into marriage, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with Canon 1394 §1. This provision of Canon law stipulates that clergy who marry incur an automatic suspension from performing priestly duties. As a result, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe is now prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity.
In the statement, Most Rev. Ewherido noted that Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe had reached out to the diocese on November 30, 2024, requesting to be released from his canonical obligations and responsibilities as a priest. Despite the Diocese’s request for documentation to begin the formal process, Oghenerukevwe proceeded with the marriage without completing the necessary steps.
The suspension is effective immediately, with all canonical implications attached to it. However, the statement emphasized that Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of the decree if he demonstrates a willingness to reform, as outlined in Canon 1734 §1.
The statement closed with a prayer for Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe, asking God to grant him the grace to reflect on his actions and find the path to reconciliation.