Breaking Canon Law: Catholic Church Suspends Priest Over Secret Marriage in the United States
Breaking Canon Law: Catholic Church Suspends Priest Over Secret Marriage in the United States
- Rev. Fr. Daniel Oghenerukevwe reportedly married Ms. Dora Chichah in Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024, violating Canon Law
- he Catholic Diocese of Warri issued a decree suspending him from priestly duties
- Footage of the wedding circulated widely on social media
The Catholic Diocese of Warri has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priesthood after reports of his secret marriage surfaced.
A statement titled “Decree of Suspension”, dated January 16, 2025, and signed by Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, and Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, revealed that Oghenerukevwe married Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA, on December 29, 2024. Video evidence of the ceremony has since gone viral on social media.
The Church noted that by entering the marriage, Fr. Oghenerukevwe incurred an automatic (Latae Sententiae) suspension under Canon law. The Bishop officially decreed his suspension, prohibiting him from performing sacred ministry or presenting himself as a priest of the diocese.
Prior to this, Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested to be released from his priestly obligations but failed to complete the necessary procedures. His subsequent marriage violated Canon 1394 §1, which prohibits clerics from contracting marriage.
The statement emphasized that the suspension takes immediate effect, but Oghenerukevwe retains the right to appeal or seek amendment of the decree if he shows a willingness to reconcile with the Church.
The Diocese concluded with a message of hope, expressing prayers for the suspended priest to reflect on his actions and pursue reconciliation.
