By Admin 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: The Catholic Diocese of Warri has announced the suspension of Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe for marrying a woman in the United States of America.
The suspension, contained in a statement jointly signed by the Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, was titled “Decree of Suspension” and dated January 16, 2025.
The statement revealed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested to be released from his priestly duties on November 30, 2024. However, while the Church was still processing his request, he went ahead to marry Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church, Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024.
The Diocese described the priest’s actions as a violation of Canon 1394 §1, which forbids priests from entering into marriage.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension. He is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity,” the statement read.
The Diocese noted that the suspension takes immediate effect and that the priest retains the right to petition for the decree’s revocation or amendment if he demonstrates a willingness to reconcile with the Church.
Bishop Ewherido expressed hope for the suspended priest’s repentance, “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation,” he stated.
The diocese further clarified that footage of the wedding, widely circulated on social media, underscored the seriousness of the breach.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Church’s commitment to upholding its canonical obligations and preserving the sanctity of the priesthood.