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Catholic Diocese Of Warri Suspends Priest Over Marriage In The U.S
The Catholic Diocese of Warri has announced the suspension of Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe from priestly duties following his reported marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in the United States.
The announcement was contained in a statement titled “Decree of Suspension” dated January 16, 2025, and signed by the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo.
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The Diocese stated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into marriage at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, Texas, on December 29, 2024.
The event was reportedly captured in a video that has since circulated widely on social media.
The Church described the action as a violation of Canon law, resulting in a Latae Sententiae suspension, which automatically takes effect for grave offenses.
The statement noted that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had earlier contacted the Diocese on November 30, 2024, requesting to be released from all canonical obligations tied to his priesthood.
However, before the process could be finalized, he proceeded with the marriage.
“By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 §1, and I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, do hereby officially decree that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry,” the statement declared.
The Diocese emphasized that the suspension prohibits Fr. Oghenerukevwe from functioning as a priest within the Catholic Diocese of Warri or presenting himself as such in any capacity.
The suspension, it added, is immediate and carries full canonical implications under Canon 1333.
The Church further addressed the possibility of reconciliation, stating: “He retains the right to petition for the revocation or amendment of this decree in accordance with Canon 1734 §1 whenever he demonstrates a willingness to reform. May God grant him the grace to reflect on this situation and guide him on the path of reconciliation.”
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The Senior Pastor of Freedom Life International Christian Center, Richard Tochukwu, has declared that gospel music possesses the spiritual capacity to transform Nigeria, describing it as a divine instrument capable of restoring hope and unity in the nation.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists, the cleric said music inspired by God’s Word can positively influence Nigeria’s spiritual and socio-political landscape by promoting peace, comfort and moral revival.
According to him, gospel music goes beyond entertainment and should be seen as a ministry tool for national healing.
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“Gospel music is not just sound; it carries power. When songs are inspired by Scripture, they can heal hearts, restore faith and redirect a nation toward righteousness,” he said.
Pastor Tochukwu made the remarks while discussing his latest worship single, “I Want To Pray,” a spiritually reflective song produced by Audio5.
He explained that the track was created to encourage believers to remain steadfast in prayer and maintain consistent fellowship with God.
The song draws inspiration from Luke 18:1, which urges believers to pray always and not lose heart.
A spiritual son of Paul Enenche, Pastor Tochukwu revealed that most of his songs are birthed from deep study of Scripture.
“Sometimes while studying or preaching from a passage, a melody begins to flow. The lyrics are drawn directly from the Word. Our songs are intentional; they carry the same message we preach,” he explained.
Reflecting on his journey, he recounted beginning as a drummer who also sang before discovering what he described as a divine instruction to minister through music.
“I realised that you don’t minister only through preaching. God made me understand that songs are another channel through which His Word can reach people. Every release is backed by Scripture,” he added.
Pastor Tochukwu currently serves in Lagos, combining pastoral leadership with music ministry.
The audio and video for “I Want To Pray” are now available on major digital streaming platforms.
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