In a major step toward the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the final list of candidates cleared to contest in the highly anticipated poll, while also announcing the commencement of public campaigns in accordance with electoral provisions.
This development follows the conclusion of the nomination and substitution window provided by the Commission. Sixteen out of Nigeria’s 19 registered political parties successfully submitted the personal details of their flag bearers through Form EC9 ahead of the stipulated deadline—6:00pm on Monday, 12th May 2025. This disclosure was earlier made during the initial publication of particulars of candidates emerging from party primaries, a process that enabled public scrutiny and legal compliance checks.
In keeping with Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties were allowed to substitute candidates who voluntarily withdrew from the race. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) was among those that utilized this window by conducting a fresh primary to replace its governorship candidate. In addition, four parties—Accord (A), African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)—effected changes to their deputy governorship nominees. That substitution process officially closed on Monday, 2nd June 2025.
With the final list now out, INEC has revealed some key demographic and gender-related insights. Among the 16 parties contesting, only two—the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM)—have nominated female candidates for the governorship position. Six parties, including Accord, APC, APP, Boot Party, Labour Party, and ZLP, have fielded women as running mates. However, no political party on the list has presented a candidate living with disability. The age bracket of the contenders ranges from 36 to 71 years, highlighting a mix of youthful and seasoned aspirants. Educational qualifications and other biographical details of all candidates have been made publicly available on INEC’s official website and social media platforms.
Following the release of this final list, no political party will be permitted to make further withdrawals or substitutions—except in the unfortunate case of death, as specified under Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.
In the same statement, INEC declared that full campaign activities for the governorship election may now commence officially from Wednesday, 11th June 2025, and will run until midnight on Thursday, 6th November 2025. This campaign window is established under Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
INEC used the opportunity to issue a firm reminder to political parties, candidates, and their supporters on the conduct expected during this period. The Commission warned against the use of abusive language, incitement, or any form of physical violence during rallies, processions, or campaign-related gatherings. The destruction of opponents’ campaign materials is equally prohibited under Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act.
Furthermore, the electoral body emphasized the need for equitable access to public facilities—including media outlets, advertising spaces, and venues for rallies and town halls—stating that no candidate or party should benefit from undue advantage linked to incumbency. This is clearly spelt out in Section 95(2) of the same Act.
The Anambra Governorship Election is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 8th November 2025, with INEC reaffirming its readiness to ensure a free, fair, and credible exercise.
