By Nkechi Eze
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the final list of candidates contesting the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. The announcement follows the conclusion of the deadline for candidate substitution and withdrawals as provided by law.
According to an official signed statement made available to Newspeg by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, a total of 16 political parties successfully uploaded the personal particulars (Form EC9) of their governorship and deputy governorship candidates by the stipulated deadline of 6:00pm on Monday, May 12, 2025.
In compliance with Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties are allowed to replace candidates who voluntarily withdraw from the race. Mr. Olumekun disclosed that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) conducted a fresh primary to substitute its initial candidate, while four other parties, Accord (A), African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) replaced their deputy governorship candidates. The substitution deadline expired on Monday, June 2, 2025.
With the conclusion of this window, the Commission affirmed that it has now published the final list of candidates participating in the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial race. Sixteen out of Nigeria’s 19 registered political parties are fielding candidates in the election. Notably, the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) have nominated female governorship candidates, while six parties are fielding 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).
Mr. Olumekun noted that no political party nominated a person with disability in this election cycle. The age range of the candidates spans from 36 to 71 years, reflecting a generational mix of aspirants. The detailed profiles of all confirmed candidates—covering party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications—have been uploaded to INEC’s official website and social media platforms for public access.
The Commission stressed that no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be entertained, except in the event of death of a candidate or running mate before the election, as outlined in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
With the final candidate list now confirmed, INEC also announced the official commencement of public campaigns. In accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties and their candidates are now permitted to begin electioneering from Wednesday, June 11, 2025. Campaigns will conclude at midnight on Thursday, November 6, 2025, just ahead of the election date.
INEC further cautioned all political actors to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement. Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act prohibit the use of inflammatory or abusive language, physical attacks on opponents, and destruction of campaign materials. The Commission reiterated that political parties and candidates must have equitable access to public facilities, including media platforms, outdoor advertising, and public spaces for rallies and processions.
INEC also reminded stakeholders that the use of incumbency to either disadvantage or unduly favour any candidate or political party is expressly forbidden under Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act.
With the stage now set for what promises to be a highly competitive race, the Commission affirmed its readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election that reflects the will of the people of Anambra State.
