The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of candidates cleared to contest the 2025 Anambra State governorship election.
Sixteen political parties made the cut, with electioneering campaigns scheduled to begin officially on Wednesday, 11th June 2025.
This was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun.
“A total of 16 political parties uploaded the particulars of their candidates (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6:00pm on Monday, 12th May 2025,” Olumekun stated.
He explained that the list followed the conclusion of the substitution window and verification of candidate information submitted by the parties.
The final list also reflects changes made by some parties, including four that replaced their deputy governorship candidates Accord, African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) went further by conducting a fresh primary to replace its earlier candidate before the substitution deadline of 2nd June.
“In line with the provision of Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties are empowered to replace candidates who voluntarily withdraw from the race,” Olumekun explained.
He stressed that the list is now conclusive, and no further substitutions will be entertained, except in the event of a candidate’s death before election day, in line with Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.
According to INEC, the gender breakdown shows that only two parties—AAC and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) are fielding female governorship candidates. Six others, including APC, LP, Accord, APP, Boot Party, and ZLP, have female running mates. However, no candidate with a disability has been nominated by any party.
The commission also revealed that the age of candidates ranges from 36 to 71 years. Full details, including academic qualifications, have been made available on INEC’s website and social media platforms.
On campaign regulations, Olumekun issued a strong reminder to political actors. “As enshrined in Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, it is unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents during rallies, or destroy their campaign materials,” he cautioned.
He also reiterated that all parties must enjoy equal access to public facilities. “Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act prohibits the use of incumbency to the advantage or disadvantage of any party or candidate,” he noted.
Campaigns will end at midnight on Thursday, 6th November 2025, two days before the scheduled election on Saturday, 8th November.
