Iri-Owunana Tamuno

"Iri-Owunana Tamuno" is a deeply moving prayer song from the Ijaw-speaking regions of Nigeria, often sung when a congregation gathers to seek God's mercy. The English subtitle printed on the score, "Hear our Cry Father," perfectly captures the spirit of the piece. It is a plea for divine attention, calling on Tamuno as the ultimate Nyanabo (Lord). When a choir raises this melody, it feels less like a formal choral work and more like a collective, heartfelt petition rising from the pews.

The musical arrangement is rooted in a traditional folk style, relying on the natural call-and-response patterns that make indigenous Nigerian choral music so engaging. In the second section, the lower voices—first the bass, then the tenor—take turns leading the cry of "Yei nyanabo Owumana," while the rest of the choir answers with "Pasisi wai te keme." This conversational exchange builds a sense of communal prayer, where every voice part has a role in carrying the petition forward.

Choirs typically bring this piece out during penitential seasons, at the Prayer of the Faithful, or during moments of reflection and supplication in the Mass. The repetition of "Nyanabo, nyanabo" near the end of the verse acts as an anchor, reminding the singers and the congregation alike of God's sovereignty. It is a grounding piece that invites everyone in the church to bring their worries before the Father.