A coalition of youths and progressive leaders in Bariga, Somolu Constituency II, has condemned alleged attempts by some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to frustrate the candidature of Hon. Morufu Idowu Alli Balogun following the party’s primaries held on May 20, 2026.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Mr. Bolaji Adewunmi on behalf of the Coalition of Bariga Youth and Progressive Leaders, the group accused certain party figures of sponsoring campaigns aimed at replacing Alli Balogun with another preferred candidate despite his emergence through the APC’s established electoral process.

The coalition described the alleged moves as an act of internal sabotage and an attempt to impose a candidate on party members, warning that such actions could undermine democratic principles and disregard the wishes of APC faithful in Somolu Constituency II.

According to the group, some leaders were pursuing personal interests rather than the collective progress of the party and were deliberately creating tension within the APC structure in the constituency.

“We wonder aloud: What exactly are the true intentions of these leaders? Are they working for the progress of our party or for the advancement of narrow personal and sectional interests?” the statement queried.

The coalition further warned that continued media attacks, rumours and divisive activities could weaken the party ahead of the elections by demoralising loyal members and creating opportunities for opposition parties to exploit internal disagreements.

It also expressed concern over what it described as the silence of some senior party leaders, particularly former Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area, Hon. Kolade Alabi, and Governance Advisory Council (GAC) member, Senator Anthony Adefuye.

The youths urged the two leaders and other stakeholders to intervene urgently to prevent further divisions and preserve unity within the party.

Reaffirming support for Alli-Balogun, the coalition said the lawmaker had earned widespread acceptance through his record of service, empowerment initiatives, legislative competence and loyalty to the APC.

“Honourable Morufu Idowu Alli-Balogun remains the best choice for Somolu Constituency II — a man of integrity, capacity and deep connection to the grassroots, particularly the youth,” the statement added.

The group vowed to resist any attempt to overturn the outcome of the party’s primary election or impose another candidate on members.

It also reiterated its commitment to the supremacy of the APC and due process, insisting that no individual or group should be allowed to hijack the party structure for personal gain.

Calling for unity ahead of the forthcoming elections, the coalition urged party leaders, stakeholders and members to close ranks, reject divisive tendencies and work collectively for the success of the APC in the constituency.