Vanessa 
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed June 11, 2025, for the start of campaigns in Anambra State. The governorship election is scheduled for November 8.
INEC made this known on Wednesday through its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun. He said the final list of candidates is now available to the public.
According to him, 16 political parties submitted their candidates’ details before the May 12 deadline. These parties will participate in the November election.
“All 16 parties uploaded their candidate details by 6 p.m. on May 12,” Olumekun confirmed.
He added that four parties, Accord, AAC, LP, and NNPP replaced their deputy governorship candidates. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) held a fresh primary to pick a new candidate before the June 2 deadline.
Olumekun explained that the Electoral Act allows candidate replacement only in cases of voluntary withdrawal. He stressed that no substitution is allowed after June 2, except in the event of death.
Women and Youth in the Race
Two parties, AAC and the National Rescue Movement, nominated female governorship candidates. Six others fielded women as deputy candidates. These include Accord, APC, APP, Boot Party, LP, and ZLP.
Candidates’ ages range from 36 to 71. However, none of the political parties nominated a candidate with a disability.
INEC has uploaded the full list of candidates, including age, gender, and academic qualifications, on its website and social media pages.
INEC Warns Parties Against Abuses
Campaigns will run from June 11 to midnight on November 6. INEC urged political parties and supporters to follow the rules.
“It is illegal to use hate speech, attack opponents, or destroy campaign materials,” the commission warned.
INEC also stressed that all candidates must have equal access to public spaces and media platforms. It warned against using state power or public resources to gain political advantage.
