Abuja- The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the official list of candidates for the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election, confirming that 16 political parties will be on the ballot.

The announcement, made on Wednesday by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chair of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, comes after the conclusion of the candidate substitution process and verification of personal details submitted by parties.

According to the statement, the deadline for uploading candidate details (Form EC9) was 6:00 p.m. on May 12, 2025. Only 16 out of 19 registered political parties met the deadline and are cleared to contest the November 8 election.

Female Candidates and Substitutions

Two parties—the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM)—have nominated women as governorship candidates, while six others, including Accord, APC, APP, Boot Party, Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party, have female running mates.

However, INEC noted that no candidate with a disability was nominated by any party.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) conducted a fresh primary to replace its governorship candidate. Meanwhile, four parties—Accord, AAC, Labour Party, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) replaced their deputy governorship nominees before the substitution window closed on June 2.

With the final list now published, no further substitutions will be permitted unless in the case of a candidate’s death, as stated in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.

Candidates’ ages range from 36 to 71 years, and the full list including party affiliation, gender, age, and qualifications—can be accessed on INEC’s website and social media pages.

Campaigns Begin June 11

INEC also confirmed that campaigns can officially commence on Wednesday, June 11, and must end by midnight on Thursday, November 6.

The Commission reminded all political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in compliance with the law. Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act strictly prohibit hate speech, violent conduct, and the destruction of campaign materials.

INEC also emphasized that all candidates must have equal access to public facilities, including media platforms and venues for rallies. The misuse of incumbency for electoral gain is banned under Section 95(2) of the Act.

“With the final list out, parties are now free to begin campaigns. However, all campaign activities must be lawful, inclusive, and respectful,” Olumekun stated.

The Anambra Governorship election will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025.