The Uburu Traditional Rulers Council in Ebonyi State has declared a dawn-to-dusk curfew and initiated a community-wide spiritual cleansing exercise following the controversial death of Mary Habila.The council, led by HRH Eze Lazarus N.Umahi (brother of Minister David Umahi), announced the curfew and cleansing on July 23, 2026, as part of traditional rites.The decision comes weeks after Habila's death at the residence of Senator David Umahi, which sparked public outrage.

The council directed all businesses, markets, and public activities to close during the curfew, urging residents to comply as a mark of respect for the sacred tradition.

Sources noted that such a public spiritual cleansing announcement has been rare, highlighting the community's response to the ongoing scrutiny over Habila's death.

The incident has also led to internal university management actions to control information flow, with the Vice-Chancellor emphasizing the need to protect the institution's reputation.The case remains under investigation, with calls for transparency and accountability persisting.