IYAYI (Creed in Bini Language)

"Iyayi" is a graceful and reverent setting of the Nicene Creed in the Edo (Bini) language, composed by John O. Ezomo. Written for the choir to lead the congregation in the profession of faith during Mass, the piece uses a cantor-and-response structure to navigate the long liturgical text.

The cantor chants the articles of faith—from the belief in one God ("I y'Osa okpa yi") to the resurrection and the life of the world to come—while the choir provides a steady, harmonised anchor with their responses. This arrangement allows the Creed to flow naturally, driven by the rhythmic cadence of the Edo language. As the cantor narrates the mysteries of Christ's incarnation, crucifixion under Pontius Pilate, and resurrection, the choir's underlying parts maintain a spirit of deep conviction. The piece concludes with a resounding, harmonised "Isee o" (Amen), sealing the community's shared belief.