Azara Egbelu

Azaraegbelu is a village in southeastern Nigeria, is located near the city of Owerri.

The name has its origin in Emekuku. Azaraegbelu was the first son of Emekuku and is regarded as the most powerful. Azaraegbelu, being the first son of Ezelukwu is made up of warriors who have always been the backbone of the entire Emekuku people. The village is one of the birthplaces of Catholicism in Eastern Nigeria as the Catholic Church in Azaraegbelu (ST MARY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH) was built just at the same time with the one centrally located at Emekuku. The church was built by the white Irish Missionaries. In the recent past, The people of Avuvu in Ikeduru, Enyiogugu in Aboh-Mbaise and some parts of Emii, all came to church in Azaraegbelu.

The then Teachers Training College (TTC) was located in Azaraegbelu. The Radio Nigeria Owerri, which is now called Heartland FM is located in Azaraegbelu too. There is also a public Primary School (TTC PRACTICING SCHOOL). At the Catholic Church, there is a primary school there run by the Marist Brothers. Azaraegbelu is made up of four (4) kindred, namely; Umuokoro (okoro mama ukwu), Onum (Onuma egbula Ezelukwu), Umuezehu (Ezuhu Oma Onum) and Ama-Achara.

The main market in Azaraegbelu is called Orie-Nwinyi. It is also among the most prominent markets in Emekuku. It is also a place where people from very many places come to enjoy themselves for there are many different places where people come to enjoy themselves. One of the most memorable days in Azaraegbelu is usually The Orienwainyi Market day during the Christmas period. Masquerades from very many communities usually converge in Azaraegbelu for a show to the delight of all.