The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the highly anticipated 2025 Anambra State governorship election, scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025.
In a statement on Wednesday, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, announced that electioneering campaigns will officially commence on Tuesday, June 11, and must end by midnight on Thursday, November 6, in line with the Electoral Act 2022.
According to INEC, a total of 16 political parties successfully submitted the details of their candidates before the deadline of May 12, 2025, and have met all requirements to participate in the November poll. The Commission noted that the final list was compiled following the conclusion of candidate substitution processes and verification of personal particulars.
“In line with the provisions of Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties are allowed to replace candidates who voluntarily withdraw. Four parties substituted their deputy governorship candidates, while the African Democratic Congress conducted a fresh primary to replace its original candidate,” Olumekun said.
The political parties that substituted their running mates include Accord, African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
INEC also confirmed that candidates’ ages range between 36 and 71 years. Two parties — the African Action Congress and the National Rescue Movement — have nominated female governorship candidates, while six parties are fielding female running mates. These include Accord, APC, APP, Boot Party, Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party.
However, the Commission disclosed that no party nominated a person with a disability, raising concerns about inclusivity in the electoral process.
The full list of candidates, including details of their academic qualifications, age, gender, and party affiliation, has been published on INEC’s website and social media platforms for public access.
INEC warned political parties, candidates, and their supporters to strictly adhere to the campaign guidelines outlined in the Electoral Act. These include the prohibition of hate speech, physical violence, and destruction of opponents’ campaign materials.
Furthermore, the Commission emphasized the need for equal access to public facilities and media platforms for all candidates, warning against the misuse of incumbency to gain undue advantage.
“As provided by Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political campaigns may begin on June 11 and must end at midnight on November 6, 2025,” Olumekun stated. “No further withdrawals or substitutions will be accepted, except in the unfortunate event of a candidate’s death before election day, as stipulated in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.”
The stage is now officially set for what promises to be a vibrant and competitive electoral season in Anambra State.
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