Jesu Ekunigo N'Onwu

"Jesu Ekunigo N'Onwu" (Jesus has risen from death) is a majestic Easter anthem by Fr. Ben Agbo that captures the earth-shaking triumph of the Resurrection. The piece opens with a striking, free-rhythm tenor recitation in a rich local dialect, setting a reflective scene before bursting into a joyous, rhythmic celebration of Christ's victory over the grave.

The lyrics recount the familiar Easter morning story with vibrant energy. We hear of the women going to the tomb ("Umu nwanyi jere n'ili"), finding it empty, and the urgent call to meet the risen Lord in Galilee. The music uses dynamic call-and-response and driving choral harmonies to express the sheer magnitude of the moment—even declaring that the town shook with the news ("Obodo edere ji ji ji").

This is a thrilling piece for a choir to present on Easter Sunday, particularly during the Offertory or as a grand Thanksgiving anthem. The intricate solos, duets, and robust SATB sections give every part of the choir loft a chance to shine, leading the congregation in a powerful, unforgettable proclamation that Jesus has truly conquered death.