The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday released the final list of candidates for the 2025 Anambra State governorship election, confirming that 16 political parties will contest in the poll scheduled for November 8, 2025.
In a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, the commission announced that campaigns can officially commence on June 11, 2025, and must end by midnight on November 6, 2025, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022.
Candidate Submissions and Replacements
Olumekun disclosed that all 16 participating parties met the May 12 submission deadline for candidates’ personal particulars (Form EC9). The final list follows the conclusion of candidate substitution processes and verification by the commission.
“Four political parties—Accord, African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)—replaced their deputy governorship candidates. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) also conducted a fresh primary to replace its governorship candidate before the June 2 deadline,” he stated.
No further withdrawals or substitutions will be accepted unless in the event of a candidate’s death, as stipulated by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
Candidate Demographics
According to INEC:
- The ages of candidates range from 36 to 71 years.
- AAC and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) nominated female governorship candidates.
- Six parties—Accord, APC, APP, Boot Party, LP, and ZLP—have female running mates.
- No candidate living with a disability was nominated.
The full list, including candidates’ names, party affiliations, ages, genders, and academic qualifications, has been made available on INEC’s website and social media platforms.
Campaign Guidelines and Warnings
INEC urged parties and supporters to adhere strictly to campaign guidelines outlined in the Electoral Act 2022, including:
- No hate speech, physical attacks, or destruction of campaign materials.
- Equal access to public venues and state-owned media for all candidates.
- No use of incumbency to gain electoral advantage.
“Parties and candidates must be given unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, and public rallies,” the statement emphasized. “INEC will monitor compliance and ensure a level playing field for all.”
The Anambra election is widely seen as a bellwether for 2027, with intense political activity expected across the state in the coming months.
