By EMMANUEL MOGBEDE

The Coalition of South South APC Voice (COSSAV) has urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that only individuals with track records of performance constitute his cabinet.

Mrs Winifred Chuku, the Convener of the coalition, gave the task at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

“We urge Mr President to carefully select only those with good track records performance, accountability, transparency and young sharp minds of APC members in South South region.

“As the criminality of oil theft and vandalism of petroleum infrastructure continue to affect the production of crude oil, adequate security will be needed to further stem activities of this economic saboteurs,” she said.

She added that this was the essence of the renewed hope for the region.

She said that the coalition was a data bank of great and transforming ideas as well as solutions to issues that bedevilled the South South.

Chuku said that the coalition was made of professionals, technocrats, vibrant youths and experienced industrial players that could contribute meaningfully to government and the country’s development.

She congratulated Tinubu on his election, describing his election as the beginning of a new era for the country.

“Your journey to the Presidency has been nothing short of remarkable and your tireless efforts, dedication and vision have been accepted by all your followers.

“Your commitment and decision within these past three weeks in office have improved the fortune of our nation because they are critical to national development,” she said.

Chuku also said that the coalition was in support of the emergence of Sen. Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President of the 10^thNational Assembly.

“The National Assembly under his watch will be different. This is because in other responsibilities he held he performed uncommonly and reflected due diligence, hard work, efficiency and developmentally focused.

“We are happy that our efforts were worth it. We appreciate your endorsement of one of our own for making him a preferred candidate in the race for the President of the Senate.

“The South South region has very competent and highly qualified persons to work in various capacities and ensure the actualisation of the Renewed Hope mantra,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that COSSAV is an umbrella body of leaders of all support and volunteer groups who joined efforts to ensure the enthronement of President Bola Tinubu. (NAN)