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, warning against attempts to challenge 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 some party stakeholders of allegedly orchestrating efforts to discredit Alli-Balogun and replace him with a preferred candidate despite his emergence through the party’s internal electoral process.
The group described the alleged moves as undemocratic and inconsistent with the principles of fairness and internal democracy, stressing that the APC must respect the outcome of the primary election and the wishes of party members who participated in the process.
According to the coalition, attempts to contest Alli-Balogun’s candidature could generate avoidable tensions within the party at a critical period when unity and cohesion are essential ahead of future electoral contests.
The youth leaders expressed concern over what they described as sustained media attacks, rumours and internal disputes, warning that such developments could weaken the party’s structure in Somolu Constituency II, discourage loyal members and create opportunities for opposition parties to gain political ground.
They also questioned the motives behind the alleged campaign against the aspirant, insisting that no individual or interest group should be allowed to impose candidates contrary to the preferences of party members and constituents.
The coalition called on key 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 prevent further divisions within the party.
“We urge our respected leaders to protect the unity and stability of the APC by addressing these issues before they escalate and cause irreparable damage to the party,” the statement said.
The group also commended Alli-Balogun for his perceived record of grassroots engagement, empowerment initiatives and loyalty to the APC, describing him as a capable candidate for Somolu Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Reaffirming their support for the aspirant, the coalition vowed to resist any attempt to overturn the outcome of the primary election or impose an alternative candidate on the constituency.
The youth leaders further urged party members and stakeholders to close ranks, uphold the supremacy of the APC and focus on strengthening the party in preparation for future elections.
