YESU YA TASHI

"Yesu Ya Tashi" (Jesus is Risen) is a vibrant, bilingual Easter anthem that captures the sheer joy of the Resurrection. Composed by Ayuba Iliya Gabakau, the piece opens with a lively Hausa proclamation of Christ’s victory over death, inviting the congregation to rejoice because the Savior is alive. The verses recount the angelic message at the empty tomb, asking why we seek the living among the dead, and directing the faithful to Galilee.

The second half of the score transitions into a sweet, flowing English section, "The Lord is Risen." Here, the choir reflects on the profound meaning of Easter—how Christ’s triumph on the cross of Calvary saves us from iniquity and offers new life. The contrast between the rhythmic, celebratory Hausa verses and the gentle English declaration creates a dynamic worship experience.

In a Nigerian parish, a piece like this shines during Easter Sunday Mass. The driving solfa rhythms and layered ostinato sections give the choir a chance to truly celebrate, lifting the spirits of the entire church as they sing "Halleluya" to the risen Lord.