Presidential candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria [ACN] Malam Nuhu Ribadu has described as baseless speculations making the round that he is secretly working for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in line with a deal he had with President Goodluck Jonathan and former President Olusegun Obasanjo ahead of the 2011 general election.

A statement by the director, media and communications of the Ribadu Campaign Organisation Ibrahim Modibbo said such allegations spread across northern Nigeria through text messages [SMS] alleging clandestine deals between Ribadu and the PDP leaders were malicious propaganda conceived to blackmail his campaign.

"We would like to state with candour that Nuhu Ribadu has no agreement whatsoever with any of the above mentioned persons, rather his decision to contest the presidential election is borne out of his determination to bring positive change to Nigeria and Nigerians; to build a nation which every citizen will be proud of.

The statement said Mallam Ribadu has always stated that the 12 years of PDP rule, and particularly 4 years of Presidents Yar'adua and Jonathan's administration, have not brought any development to Nigerians, rather it brought untold hardship, insecurity and joblessness. The statement said Ribadu is more than ready to change the status quo.

"While everyone is free to express his/her opinion in a democracy, we call on all to be truthful and just in making statements and claims," the statement said.