The ancient town of Zaria in Kaduna state on Monday stood still for the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate, Nasir El-Rufai.

Mr. El-Rufai, who was conducting his gubernatorial campaign, was received by thousands of Zazzau Emirate residents at Eid Praying Ground in Zaria.

The candidate said the significance of the crowd that ushered him proved that change is inevitable and a new dawn beckons for development and purposeful leadership.

According to Mr. El-Rufai who was accompanied by thousands of APC leaders and members, the move for change is justified by the failed leadership and myriads of challenges in all parts of the state.

He said, “I am emotional and touched because of the way and manner we were received. We were received with total acceptance, trust and confidence that we have all it takes to rebuild our dear state.

“Our state is in need of direction, focus and practical leadership that will bring about justice, development and purposeful leadership to manage our complexities. Kaduna State is in search of a competent and capable sailor and crew to sail our state out of the storm.

“We are in the middle of this dangerous navigation, but we are confident that by the special grace of Almighty God we will sail to safety. It is not about us but what is best for tomorrow and the future.

“You should remember that we are standing before history and posterity, we must strive to stand for the best of the future that outlives our personal interests. We must be bold, courageous and firm to give the people of Kaduna our best .

“Think of our younger brothers and sisters, think of our children and grand-children, think of multiple generations ahead. Let us write our names in gold, and so stand up and save Kaduna State,” Mr. El-Rufai addressed the crowd.

Appealing for issue-based politics, Mr. El-Rufai condemned political violence saying, “It is Almighty God that gives power and we are seeking for this power from him and the people of Kaduna State.

“So don’t fight anyone, don’t abuse anyone, don’t blackmail or insult people because of political differences. Don’t abuse people’s parents, instead respect them because they are also our own parents and we hold them in high esteem. Don’t return violence for violence; don’t destroy people’s posters, billboards and properties because they did same.

“Be law abiding, respect law and order, leave them to God but use your votes wisely during elections. Violence is not the solution but good governance that will be provided by competent, sincere, honest and God-fearing leadership.”

Mr. El-Rufai kicked off the governorship campaign for Kaduna North Senatorial zone last week in Makarfi local government before touring Kudan, Ikara, Lere, Soba, Kubau and Sabon Gari local government areas before rounding off in Zaria local government on Sunday.

The campaign will on Tuesday commence in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone before moving on to Kaduna South Senatorial Zone.