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By Tracy Moses
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates contesting the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election and officially declared the commencement of campaign activities.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun
According to the Commission, a total of 16 political parties submitted the personal particulars of their governorship candidates using Form EC9, by the stipulated deadline of 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, following the conclusion of party primaries, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.
“16 political parties have successfully nominated candidates for the Anambra Governorship Election. We have also published the final list of candidates on our website and social media platforms for public access and scrutiny,” Olumekun said.
He explained that, in line with Section 33 of the Electoral Act, political parties were permitted to substitute candidates who voluntarily withdrew from the race before the final deadline.
“In keeping with the law, parties were allowed to substitute withdrawn candidates. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) held a fresh primary to replace its governorship candidate, while four others, Accord (A), African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), nominated new deputy governorship candidates before the deadline of Monday, June 2, 2025,” he added.
Olumekun emphasized that no further withdrawals or substitutions would be accepted, except in the event of death.
“With the publication of this list, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates shall be entertained, except in the case of death of a candidate or running mate prior to election day, as stipulated in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” he stated.
Out of Nigeria’s 19 registered political parties, 16 will participate in the November 8 election. Notably, two parties, African Action Congress (AAC) and National Rescue Movement (NRM), have nominated female governorship candidates, while six others fielded female deputy governorship candidates.
“We are pleased to see an improvement in gender representation, though we still have a long way to go in achieving full inclusivity,” Olumekun noted.
However, he revealed that no political party nominated any person with a disability.
“This is a concern. INEC continues to encourage inclusive participation, and we urge political parties to prioritize the inclusion of persons with disabilities in future elections,” he said.
The age range of the candidates spans from 36 to 71 years, reflecting what INEC described as “a broad generational representation.”
INEC also reminded political parties that, in accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, campaigns may officially commence on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, and must end by midnight on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
“We call on all political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in accordance with the law,” Olumekun urged.
He cited Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act, warning against the use of hate speech, incitement, and violence during the campaign period.
“Candidates must be granted equal access to public facilities for campaign purposes. Misuse of state resources to gain electoral advantage is strictly prohibited under Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act,” he cautioned.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and credible electoral process.
“The Commission will not hesitate to take action against any political party, candidate, or supporter that violates the provisions of the law. The rules are clear, and we intend to enforce them to the letter,” Olumekun declared.
The governorship election is scheduled to take place on Saturday, November 8, 2025.