The Bishop of Warri Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe for entering into marriage, a violation of the Church’s canon law.
In a statement jointly signed by the Bishop and Very Rev. Fr. Clement A., Chancellor/Notary of the Diocese, it was disclosed that Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024. The event, captured on video, has been widely circulated on social media.
The statement explained that by entering into marriage, Oghenerukevwe incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension, as stipulated in Canon 1394 §1 of the Church’s law.
Official Decree of Suspension
The Bishop stated:
“Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, who has been out of active ministry and without an official assignment in the United States of America, contacted me on November 30, 2024, requesting to be released from all canonical obligations and responsibilities associated with Holy Orders within the Roman Catholic Church.
“The Diocese of Warri requested the necessary documents to initiate this process. However, on December 29, 2024, Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into marriage with Ms. Dora Chichah. By this action, he has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with Canon 1394 §1.
“Therefore, I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, officially decree that he is suspended from exercising any sacred ministry and prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity. This suspension, as outlined in Canon 1333, takes immediate effect.
“He retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of this decree in accordance with Canon 1734 §1, should he demonstrate a willingness to reform.
“May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation.”
The Diocese emphasized its commitment to upholding the sanctity of priestly vows and urged the faithful to continue praying for the Church.
