The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sam Olumekun—INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee—confirmed that political parties can begin campaigns on June 11.
INEC earlier published the personal details of candidates who emerged from primaries organized by political parties. Sixteen parties submitted their candidates’ particulars (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025.
In accordance with Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, INEC permitted political parties to replace candidates who voluntarily withdrew from the race. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) conducted a new primary to select a replacement, while four other parties—Accord (A), African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)—replaced their deputy governorship candidates.
INEC confirmed that the deadline for candidate withdrawal and substitution ended on Monday, June 2, 2025.
“Consequently, the Commission has now published the final list of candidates contesting the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election,” Olumekun stated.
Out of the 19 registered political parties, 16 will participate in the election. The AAC and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) nominated female candidates, while six parties—Accord (A), All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party (LP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)—chose female running mates. No party nominated a candidate with a disability. The candidates’ ages range from 36 to 71 years.
INEC emphasized that, with the final list published, no further withdrawals or replacements will be allowed unless a candidate or running mate dies before Election Day, in line with Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.
Under Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties may begin public campaigns from Wednesday, June 11, 2025, and must conclude by midnight on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
Olumekun also warned parties and candidates to comply with Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act, which prohibit the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents, and destruction of campaign materials during rallies, processions, and meetings.
INEC further directed all authorities to grant political parties and candidates unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, public rallies, and meetings.
“For clarity, Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of incumbency to benefit or disadvantage any party or candidate,” the Commission added.
