The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Oghenerukevwe after his secret marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in the U.S. on December 29, 2024. The marriage violated Church laws, leading to his suspension.
The Catholic Diocese of Warri in Delta State has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe following his secret marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in the U.S. The incident, which took place on December 29, 2024, at Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, has sparked controversy within the Church. In a statement released on January 16, 2025, the Diocese confirmed the marriage and emphasized that it violated Catholic Church laws, particularly Canon 1394 §1, which led to the priest’s suspension.
The Diocese also clarified that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested a release from his priestly duties on November 30, 2024, but the necessary canonical processes were incomplete when he married. Despite efforts to follow the required procedures, the Diocese stated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe ignored requests for documentation and proceeded with the marriage. As a result, he is barred from presenting himself as a priest and must follow the Church’s disciplinary actions, with the possibility of petitioning for the suspension’s amendment or revocation should he demonstrate a willingness to conform to the Church’s rules.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some expressing understanding for Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s desire to leave the priesthood and marry, while others criticized his hasty actions. Many pointed out the conflict between his desire for marriage and his duty to follow Church protocols, with some humorously suggesting his pursuit of a “green card” through marriage.
