ANAMBRA: INEC confirms candidates for gov’ship election, campaigns set to begin June 11

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.

According to a statement from INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, a total of 16 political parties submitted candidate details using Form EC9.

With the publication of the final list, INEC clarified that no candidate substitutions or withdrawals will be permitted unless due to death before the election.

The commission noted that the deadline for candidate submissions was 6:00 PM on May 12, 2025, though replacements for voluntary withdrawals were allowed up until June 2, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022.

Of the 19 registered political parties, 16 are fielding candidates for the election. Notably, the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) are presenting female governorship candidates, while six other parties have nominated female running mates.

However, INEC stated that no candidate with a disability was nominated.

Candidate ages range from 36 to 71 years, and full details including age, gender, academic qualifications, and party affiliation have been posted on INEC’s website and social media channels.

INEC emphasized that further changes to the candidate list are now only possible in the event of a candidate’s death, as stipulated in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.

INEC also confirmed that campaign activities may officially commence on June 11, 2025, and will run until midnight on November 6, 2025, in accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act.

The commission urged all political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and lawfully during campaigns.

Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act prohibit the use of abusive language, violence, or destruction of opponents’ materials during rallies and political gatherings.

Additionally, INEC warned against the misuse of public office during campaigns.

All candidates are to be granted equal access to public facilities, media airtime, and outdoor advertising space.

Section 95(2) of the Act specifically bars incumbents from leveraging their office to benefit or disadvantage any candidate.