The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday released the final list of candidates for the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State.
In a statement signed by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the Commission disclosed that 16 political parties successfully uploaded the particulars of their candidates (Form EC9) for the upcoming election.
INEC confirmed that with the official publication of the list, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be allowed, except in the case of the death of a candidate or their running mate before Election Day, as stipulated by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
The Commission noted that the deadline for submission of candidates’ details was 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. However, it clarified that political parties were permitted under the Electoral Act to substitute candidates who voluntarily withdrew from the race until June 2, 2025.
Of the 19 registered political parties, 16 are participating in the election. Among them, the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) nominated female governorship candidates, while six parties have selected female running mates. These include Accord (A), All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party (LP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP). INEC also noted that no party nominated a person with a disability as a candidate. The age of the candidates ranges from 36 to 71 years.
The full list of candidates, including their party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications, has been published on INEC’s official website and social media platforms for public access.
On the commencement of campaigns, INEC stated that, in accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties may begin public campaigning from Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The campaign period will run until midnight on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
INEC also reminded parties, candidates, and their supporters of the legal requirements for peaceful and respectful electioneering. Citing Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act, the Commission emphasized that the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents during rallies, or destruction of campaign materials is prohibited.
Furthermore, INEC reiterated that all political parties and candidates must be given equal and unimpeded access to public facilities for media engagement, outdoor advertising, and campaign activities. It warned against the misuse of incumbency, referencing Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act, which forbids using public office to gain undue advantage or to disadvantage any candidate or party.
