The Independent National Electoral Commission has confirmed the final list of candidates who will contest in the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 4, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said that 16 political parties successfully submitted the names and details of their candidates through Form EC9.
“The final list of candidates has now been published,” Olumekun stated. “With this publication, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates is allowed except in the unfortunate event of a candidate or running mate dying before the election.”
He explained that the deadline for submission of candidates’ particulars was 6 pm on Monday, May 12. However, political parties were allowed by law to replace candidates who voluntarily stepped down until June 2.
Olumekun noted that only 16 out of the 19 registered political parties are taking part in the upcoming poll. Two parties — the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) — nominated female governorship candidates. Six other parties picked women as running mates.
The parties with female running mates include Accord (A), All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party (LP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
INEC also confirmed that no candidate living with a disability was nominated for the election.
“In terms of age, the candidates range from 36 to 71 years,” the statement added. “The full list, including details like party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications, is available on our official website and social media platforms.”
INEC also reminded all political parties and candidates that campaign activities are allowed to start from Tuesday, June 11, 2025, and will end at midnight on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
“Political parties, candidates, and their supporters must avoid using hate speech, threats, or physical violence during their rallies, meetings, or processions,” the statement warned.
The commission also emphasized that no campaign materials should be destroyed and that all parties must be treated fairly when using public spaces or the media for campaigns.
“For clarity, Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 forbids the use of incumbency to gain an unfair advantage over other candidates or parties,” INEC stressed.
The commission urged all political actors in Anambra to respect the rules and promote peaceful, fair, and credible elections.
