Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe of the Catholic Diocese of Warri has renounced his celibacy vows and priestly calling to marry his partner, Dora Chichah, in Dallas, United States. The marriage ceremony took place at the Streams of Joy Church on December 29, 2024, despite his suspension from priestly duties by the church.
The suspension, announced in a statement dated January 16, 2025, and signed by Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, and Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, Chancellor/Notary, indicated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension under Canon 1394 S1 for marrying without proper release from his priestly obligations.
The statement read: “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. As such, he is prohibited from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity.”
The Diocese revealed that although Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested release from canonical obligations on November 30, 2024, he failed to complete the required documentation before proceeding with the marriage. A video of the wedding, which circulated on social media, reportedly prompted swift action from the church.
The statement concluded with an appeal for reflection and reconciliation: “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation.”
Family Speaks Out
Mary Okanatotor, who identified herself as Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s biological sister, defended his decision to leave the priesthood and get married. In a social media comment, she attributed his actions to mental health struggles and loneliness, compounded by a lack of physical support from his family during challenging times.
She wrote: “The said priest is my brother, and it was the best decision for him because he had a lot of issues with his mental health for a long time and couldn’t deal with the loneliness. We, his family members, were not with him to support him physically. This is a trying time for our family, but he who finds a wife finds a good thing.”
Mary also dismissed claims that the marriage was conducted in secret, stating that her brother had informed the Diocese of his intentions beforehand.
Church Stands Firm
The Diocese maintains that Fr. Oghenerukevwe’s actions violate his vows and canonical obligations. While he retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of the suspension, the church has called for adherence to its prescribed process for release from Holy Orders.
This development continues to stir debate, with many offering prayers for the former priest’s well-being and resolution of the situation.
