Itohan

"Itohan" is a deeply moving Edo prayer for mercy, often sung during the Penitential Rite or as a solemn reflection during Lent. The title translates to "Mercy," and the entire piece is built around the earnest plea "Mwen itohan" (Have mercy on us), directed to Osalobua (God) and Jesu Christi. It carries the weight of a congregation seeking forgiveness and grace, asking God to look upon them with compassion.

Vincent I. Ihaza’s arrangement uses a rich, through-composed structure to bring this prayer to life. The choir begins with a unified, sweeping supplication before the texture shifts to a dedicated Tenor solo. This solo section allows a single voice to step forward, carrying the community's repentance in a more personal, urgent tone, while the rest of the choir provides a gentle, rhythmic backing.

As the piece moves toward its conclusion, the full choir rejoins for a powerful final section, repeating their cry for mercy and peace ("rhie'ofunwegbe we nima"). It is a striking piece of indigenous Nigerian liturgical music, blending traditional Edo reverence with classic choral harmony to create a moment of profound worship in the Mass.