Priest Suspended After Shock Marriage in the U.S., Violating Catholic Law

Abuja, NIGERIA — The Catholic Diocese of Warri, located in Delta State, Nigeria, has officially suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Oghenerukevwe from the priesthood following his reported marriage in the United States.

The suspension was announced in an official decree dated January 16, 2025, and signed by the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Clement A. The decree revealed that Oghenerukevwe violated church laws by marrying Ms. Dora Chichah at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, Texas, on December 29, 2024.

According to the decree, Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe, who had been out of active ministry and without any official assignment in the U.S., contacted Bishop Ewherido on November 30, 2024, requesting to be released from all canonical obligations associated with his ordination. In response, the diocese sought documentation to begin the canonical process. However, instead of waiting for the formal proceedings, Oghenerukevwe proceeded to marry in December, a decision that attracted attention after footage of the ceremony circulated widely on social media.

The decree specifically cited Canon 1394 §1, which imposes a Latae Sententiae suspension on any cleric who marries, leading to the official decision to suspend him from all sacred ministries. The suspension prohibits Oghenerukevwe from presenting himself as a priest in any capacity within the Catholic Diocese of Warri. All canonical consequences of the suspension took effect immediately, as outlined in Canon 1333.

In the decree, Bishop Ewherido expressed hope that Oghenerukevwe would reflect on his actions and seek reconciliation. “May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation,” the Bishop wrote.

The Catholic Church’s vow of celibacy is a fundamental requirement for all priests, and marriage is strictly prohibited for those who are ordained. The decision to marry, therefore, violates the core tenets of priesthood and was deemed a serious breach of church law.

Rev. Fr. Oghenerukevwe has the right to petition for the revocation or modification of his suspension in the future, provided he shows a willingness to reform and adhere to the obligations of his vocation, as per Canon 1734 §1.

This suspension highlights the church’s unwavering stance on celibacy and the expectations placed on clergy to uphold the sacred commitments made at ordination. The Diocese of Warri has emphasized that the decision was made in accordance with canon law, ensuring that the integrity of the priesthood is maintained.

The case has garnered significant attention within the church and broader community, underscoring the ongoing tension between personal choices and religious commitments.