OB'ITOHAN (GOD OF MERCY)

"Ob'itohan" translates to "God of Mercy" in the Edo (Bini) language, and this piece by David E. Irobonosen is a deeply moving Lenten hymn. Written for the Catholic Chaplaincy Students' Choir at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, it captures the solemn, reflective spirit of the Lenten season. The song is a heartfelt plea for God's compassion and forgiveness, making it especially fitting for the Penitential Rite or as a quiet meditation during Lent.

The arrangement uses a dynamic call-and-response structure, with cantors leading the verses and the full choir joining in rich harmony. The lyrics repeatedly cry out "Tohan mwan" (have mercy on us) and "Lahor" (please), asking Jesus, the King ("Jesu, Oba"), to wash away sins ("orukho mwen imufua"). As the choir builds through the varied choruses, the music carries the congregation's collective prayer for grace, creating a powerful moment of surrender and trust in God's unending mercy.