Ebonyi Council Imposes Curfew After Mary Habila's Death

The Uburu Traditional Rulers Council in Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, has declared a dawn-to-dusk curfew and announced a community-wide spiritual cleansing exercise following the controversial death of Mary Habila. This traditional exercise, known as “Isu Arua,” is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, 2026.

Residents are instructed to remain indoors during this period to foster peace, unity, and spiritual renewal. The announcement was made by HRH Eze Lazarus N.

Umahi, and all arrangements for the rite have been completed. The curfew will see all markets, shops, and public gatherings closed from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The council emphasized the sacred nature of the event and urged cooperation from all community members. The controversy surrounding Habila's death intensified after Senator David Umahi called for a forensic examination to ascertain the cause of death, which occurred in his residential compound.

He requested a comprehensive autopsy to ensure transparency and justice before her burial.