Catholic Priest Suspended After Secret Wedding in the US
The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanator Oghenerukevwe from all ministerial duties following reports of his secret marriage in the United States. The suspension, issued in a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” and dated January 16, 2025, was signed by Bishop Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo.
According to the statement, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. This revelation came to light after a video of the wedding went viral on social media, prompting immediate action from the diocese.
The statement reads:
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 S1, and 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 disclosed that the priest had previously sought release from his priestly obligations as of November 30, 2024, but failed to complete the necessary documentation before proceeding with the marriage.
Additionally, the diocese clarified:
“As such, he is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity. All canonical implications associated with this suspension take immediate effect (cf. Can. 1333).”
The decree also noted that Fr. Oghenerukevwe retains the right to appeal the suspension but must demonstrate genuine repentance and a willingness to reconcile with the Church.
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Content Credit| Igbakuma Rita Doom
Picture Credit | https://www.gistreel.com/warri-catholic-priest-suspended-over-secret-marriage-in-u-s/
