By Our Correspondent
Community suspends activities as traditional leaders announce “Isu Arua” rite amid public attention over controversial death
The traditional leadership of Uburu community in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State has announced a spiritual cleansing exercise and imposed a temporary curfew following the death of Mary Habila, an incident that has drawn widespread public attention.
The Uburu Traditional Rulers Council said the cleansing exercise, known locally as “Isu Arua,” is aimed at restoring peace, unity and spiritual renewal within the community.
In a statement issued on behalf of the council by Chief Nicholas Odi, residents were informed that the traditional rite would take place on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The council also announced a dawn-to-dusk curfew as part of measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the exercise.
According to the directive, movement and public activities will be restricted between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on the day of the cleansing. Markets, shops, businesses, public gatherings and other activities were ordered to remain suspended during the period.
The traditional council appealed to residents, visitors and business owners to comply with the directive, stressing that the exercise was intended to promote peace and harmony in the community.
The announcement follows growing public interest surrounding the death of Mary Habila, who reportedly died on June 27, 2026, at the residence of Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu.
The circumstances surrounding her death have generated reactions, with calls from concerned individuals and groups for a thorough investigation to establish the facts. Authorities have indicated that relevant procedures, including forensic examination, are part of efforts to determine what happened.
As investigations continue, the traditional council’s decision has added a cultural dimension to the ongoing situation, with community leaders emphasizing the importance of maintaining calm and preserving peace.
Residents are expected to observe the curfew and participate in the community’s traditional process as leaders seek to address concerns and encourage stability in Uburu.
The outcome of ongoing investigations into Mary Habila’s death is expected to provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
