OYALA K'OWOICHO

"Oyala K'owoicho" is a reverent Idoma setting of the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God), composed by Abimaje Austin. Written entirely in solfa notation, the manuscript notes that it was prepared for a special celebration at Christ the King College (CKC) in Ankpa.

The song captures the solemnity of the fraction rite during Mass. The choir leads the congregation in the familiar liturgical plea, singing "Oy'ala K'owoicho" to invoke the Lamb of God, and asking the Lord ("Ondu") for mercy ("je bo lalo").

With its gentle phrasing and a handwritten note from the composer reminding the choir to "be more liturgical," the arrangement encourages a prayerful, measured delivery. It brings the deep reverence of the Catholic Mass into the native tongue of the Idoma people, grounding the moment before Communion in a familiar and comforting voice.