The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the 2025 Anambra State Governorship Election, scheduled for Saturday, 8th November 2025, following the substitution and withdrawal of candidates by political parties.
According to a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information & Voter Education Committee, four political parties—Accord, African Action Congress (AAC), Labour Party, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)—have replaced their deputy governorship candidates.
The deadline for substituting candidates was Monday, 2nd June 2025, by Section 33 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which permits parties to replace candidates who voluntarily withdraw from the race.
INEC revealed that 16 out of Nigeria’s 19 registered political parties are participating in the Anambra election. Of the 16, AAC and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) have nominated female candidates for the governorship.
At the same time, six other parties—Accord, All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)—have named female running mates.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) conducted a fresh primary election to replace its previous candidate.
INEC disclosed that none of the participating parties nominated a person with disability (PWD) as either a candidate or running mate. The ages of candidates range from 36 to 71 years, with details on gender, academic qualifications, and party affiliation published on INEC’s official website and social media platforms.
“With this publication, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be allowed except in the event of death of a candidate or running mate before Election Day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” the statement added.
Campaign Period and Legal Guidelines
INEC confirmed that, in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, political parties may commence public campaigns from Wednesday, 11th June 2025, which will run until midnight on Thursday, 6th November 2025.
The Commission also reminded political actors of their obligations under Sections 92, 93, and 95 of the Electoral Act:
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Abusive language, physical violence, and destruction of campaign materials are strictly prohibited.
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Equal access to public spaces and media platforms must be granted to all political parties and candidates.
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Use of incumbency for undue advantage is outlawed.
INEC’s proactive enforcement of electoral guidelines is intended to ensure a free, fair, and credible election that promotes inclusivity, transparency, and peaceful democratic engagement.
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