OBUYI TOHANMWAN

"Obuyi Tohanmwan" is a deeply moving Edo setting of the Kyrie, calling on God’s infinite mercy. The title translates to a plea for the Lord's compassion, and the lyrics expand this into a profound prayer for guidance and salvation. The choir sings to the Almighty Creator ("Enoyaenmwan n'o mwentin hia"), asking Him to save the faithful from sin ("Simwin ma vb'orukho") and to keep them from losing their way ("ghe gi ma bibi ode").

During the Penitential Rite of the Mass, this piece grounds the congregation in a spirit of true repentance. The arrangement layers the voices in a traditional call-and-response style, building a collective cry to the Father and to Jesus. As the choir weaves through the verses, the music shifts from a solemn petition to a rhythmic, heartfelt expression of faith, reminding everyone present of God's saving grace.

Composed by Vincent Tinza, Joseph Mokwenye, and Kingsley Osia, the score captures the natural cadence of the Edo language. The overlapping harmonies and ad-lib sections allow the choir to pour genuine emotion into the prayer. It is a piece that brings a quiet, reflective reverence to the church, drawing the people into a sincere moment of seeking God's forgiveness before the liturgy continues.