Nigerian Catholic Priest suspended for secretly getting married
A Catholic priest at the Warri, Delta State diocese, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, has been suspended from his priestly duty.
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According to the report, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe was suspended following his alleged secret marriage in the USA.
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The diocese has released a statement following his suspension from priestly duty.
In a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” dated Thursday, January 16, 2025, and released to journalists on Sunday, the diocese confirmed that Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into matrimony with Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a latae sententiae suspension, and I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.”
According to the diocese, Fr. Oghenerukevwe had previously requested the church leadership to release him of his duty.
However, Fr. Oghenerukevwe proceeded with the marriage, knowing fully well the procedures it takes to be released.
Though the leadership prays, he considers his ways and asks for reconciliation.
The story has stirred reactions from members of the Catholic Church and Nigerians at large.
The question is, should a priest be allowed to get married?
