Eyen Eron Abasi

"Eyen Eron Abasi" is a gentle, reverent setting of the Agnus Dei in the Efik language, composed by Dom Inyang. In the Catholic Mass, this is the moment of the Fraction Rite, when the bread is broken and the choir leads the congregation in a plea for mercy and peace. As noted right on the score, the title means "Lamb of God," and the music carries the solemn, petitionary weight of that moment.

Dom Inyang’s arrangement is written with a steady, walking Andante tempo that gives the choir space to breathe and phrase the Efik text naturally. The Soprano line carries the familiar plea—"afo emi emen de m'idiok mkpo 'rerimbot efep" (you who take away the sins of the world)—while the lower voices provide a warm, homophonic cushion. The piece builds its emotional core on the repeated cries of "tua, tua nnyinmbom" (have mercy on us) before settling into the final, quiet resolution of "no nnyin emem" (grant us peace).

For a Nigerian choir, especially those incorporating Efik repertoire into their liturgy, this piece offers a beautiful moment of reflection before Communion. It does not demand overpowering volume, but rather a blended, prayerful sound from the SATB voices. It is a wonderful choice for the Agnus Dei, drawing the hearts of the faithful toward the altar as they prepare to receive the Eucharist.