A coalition of youth and progressive leaders in Bariga and Somolu Constituency II has thrown its weight behind Lagos State House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Morufu Alli-Balogun, condemning alleged attempts by some party leaders to undermine the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election held on May 20.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Coalition of Bariga Youth and Progressive Leaders accused certain stakeholders within the party of sponsoring campaigns aimed at discrediting Alli-Balogun and replacing him with a preferred candidate despite the outcome of the party’s internal democratic process.

The group described the alleged actions as undemocratic and inconsistent with the principles of fairness, transparency and internal democracy, insisting that the APC must respect the choice of party members who participated in the primary election.

According to the coalition, efforts to overturn Alli-Balogun’s emergence could create unnecessary divisions within the party at a critical period when unity and cohesion are needed ahead of future elections.

The youth leaders warned that sustained media attacks, rumours and internal disagreements could weaken the APC’s structure in Somolu Constituency II, discourage loyal supporters and create openings for opposition parties to gain political ground.

They questioned the motives behind what they termed a coordinated campaign against the aspirant, stressing that no individual or interest group should be allowed to impose candidates contrary to the wishes of party members and constituents.

The coalition also appealed to respected APC leaders in the area, including Hon. Kolade Alabi, former Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area, and Senator Anthony Adefuye, a member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), to intervene and help preserve peace and unity within the party.

“We call on our leaders to safeguard the stability of the APC by addressing these issues before they escalate and undermine the party’s collective interests,” the statement read.

The group commended Alli-Balogun for his contributions to grassroots development, community engagement, empowerment programmes and unwavering loyalty to the APC, describing him as the most qualified candidate to represent Somolu Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Reaffirming their support, the coalition vowed to resist any attempt to reverse the outcome of the primary election or impose another candidate on the constituency.

They further urged party members and stakeholders to remain united, respect the party’s democratic processes and focus on strengthening the APC ahead of future electoral contests.