••Nigerian Diocese Acts Against Reverend for Violating Canon Law
By John Audu
Warri, Delta State, Nigeria – The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following allegations that he secretly married a woman in the United States.
In a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” issued on January 16, 2025, the Diocese revealed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, Texas.
The statement, jointly signed by Bishop Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and Chancellor/Notary Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, emphasized that the priest’s actions contravene Catholic Church laws.
“Footage of the wedding has been widely circulated on social media, prompting the Church to take action,” the statement said.
Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s actions have automatically resulted in his suspension under Canon 1394 §1 of Church law.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension,” the statement read. “I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.”
The Diocese noted that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested a release from his priestly obligations on November 30, 2024, but the process was incomplete when he proceeded with the marriage.
Despite requests for the necessary documents to formalize his exit from priesthood, the Diocese stated they received no response from Fr. Oghenerukevwe before his wedding.
“As such, he is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity,” the statement declared.
The Diocese emphasized that while Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to appeal the suspension, he must 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 statement concluded.
