Exclusive: Catholic Diocese of Warri, suspends Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe for dereliction of duty, marriage to Chichah

The Catholic Diocese of Warri, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, for dereliction of duty and entering into marriage with Ma. Dora Chichah.

In the Decree of Suspension dated Thursday January 16, 2025, the Catholic Diocese of Warri, disclosed that Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, requested on November 30, 2024, “to be released from all canonical obligations and responsibilities associated with Holy Orders within the Roman Catholic Church.”

The Catholic Diocese of Warri, in the Decree of Suspension, which was signed by Bishop of Warri, Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and Chancellor/Notary Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, explained: “The Diocese of Warri reached out to Fr. Oghenerukewwe, requesting the submission of documents required to initiate the process. However, on December 29, 2024, Fr. Oghenerukewwe entered into marriage with Ma. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. Footage of this marriage has been widely circulated on social media.

“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukewwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 §1, and I.

“Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.

“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 (c{ Can 1333).

“He retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of this decree in accordance with Canon 1734 §1 whenever he demonstrates a willingness to reform.”

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