Alleluia! O Rhiokpaegbe

"Alleluia! O Rhiokpaegbe" is a triumphant Easter motet sung in the Edo language, proclaiming the joy of Christ’s resurrection. The title translates to "Alleluia! He is Risen," and the piece captures the very essence of Easter morning. From the opening narrative recalling Christ's passion under Pontius Pilate, the music bursts into a vibrant, fast-paced "Allegro" section filled with cascading Alleluias and declarations of His victory over death.

Choirs often use this piece during the Easter season, particularly on Easter Sunday or throughout the Easter Octave, to lead the congregation in celebrating the risen Lord. The arrangement features dynamic interplay between the male cantor, female cantors, and the full choir, building up to a powerful unison section that praises Osanobua (God).

What makes this motet so moving is its rhythmic energy and the sheer exultation in its text. As the voices layer together, repeating "Ijesu rhiokpaegbe" (Jesus is risen) and crowning Him as "Oba no kpolo" (The mighty King), it brings a profound sense of spiritual triumph to the liturgy. It is a piece that demands full voice and a joyful heart from every singer in the loft.