The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the final list of candidates contesting in the upcoming Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, INEC confirmed that 16 political parties successfully submitted the personal particulars (Form EC9) of their candidates ahead of the legal deadline.
According to the commission, the deadline for submission was 6:00 p.m. on May 12, while parties were permitted to substitute candidates who voluntarily withdrew until June 2, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022.
Following the release of the final list, no further changes can be made, except in the event of the death of a candidate or running mate.
Gender and Age Breakdown
Out of the 16 participating parties, the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) nominated female governorship candidates.
Additionally, six political parties—Accord (A), All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party (LP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)—fielded female running mates.
INEC also revealed that no candidate living with a disability was nominated by any of the parties. The age range of the candidates spans from 36 to 71 years.
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“The full list of candidates, including their party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications, is now available on our website and social media platforms for public scrutiny,” the commission stated.
INEC reminded all political parties and candidates that campaigns can officially commence from Wednesday, June 11, 2025, and will run until midnight of Thursday, November 6, 2025, in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act.
As the campaign season begins, INEC reiterated its warning against the use of abusive language, physical attacks, and the destruction of opponents’ campaign materials, citing Sections 92 and 93 of the Act.
Furthermore, the commission emphasized that all candidates must be given equal access to public facilities, including media platforms, public spaces, and advertising opportunities.
It also cautioned against the abuse of incumbency, as Section 95(2) prohibits the use of state resources or influence to unfairly benefit or sabotage any candidate or party.
With the race for Anambra’s top job officially underway, all eyes will now turn to how the candidates engage the electorate and navigate the months ahead before Election Day.