INEC Sets Timetable for Anambra Governorship Election, APC Announces Primary Date

ABUJA, Nigeria — The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Wednesday, called for strict adherence to the timetable for the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025. Political parties fielding candidates must conduct primaries between March 20 and April 10, 2025, Yakubu announced during a consultative meeting with political party leaders in Abuja.

“May I remind leaders of political parties that primaries for the nomination of candidates for the Anambra State governorship election begin in the next two months, i.e., March 20 to April 10, 2025,” Yakubu said. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the Electoral Act 2022, which requires INEC to issue election notices at least 360 days before the election date.

Yakubu also addressed the upcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election, scheduled for February 21, 2026. “The last Area Council election in the FCT was held on February 12, 2022. By the effluxion of time, the tenure of the current chairmen and councillors ends next year,” he stated. Voting will take place across 68 constituencies to elect six Area Council chairmen and 62 councillors.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has scheduled its governorship primary for March 28, 2025. Chief Basil Ejidike, APC chairman in Anambra, announced the decision during a State Working Committee meeting, aligning with INEC’s guidelines. “We are ready and determined to conduct a free, fair, and credible primary election that will be acceptable to all the aspirants,” Ejidike said.

Four aspirants have declared their intentions to represent the APC in the election: Sir Paul Chukwuma, Chief Azuka Okwuosa, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, and Evangelist Nicholas Ukochukwu. The APC spokesperson, Dr. Valentine Iyke-Oliobi, confirmed the party’s commitment to adhering to electoral laws and ensuring a transparent process.

INEC’s announcement and the APC’s preparations mark the beginning of a critical electoral cycle in Anambra State, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for compliance with timelines and regulations to ensure a smooth and credible election.