How Mikel blocked some players from playing for Super Eagles - AFCON 2013 winner reveals

Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has made a startling revelation about internal dynamics within the Nigerian national team, alleging that ex-captain John Obi Mikel used his influence to prevent some players from receiving call-ups during his time with the squad.

Onazi made the claims while speaking on the “Home Turf” podcast, where he reflected on his experiences playing alongside Mikel in the Super Eagles setup.

According to Onazi, Mikel’s authority within the team extended beyond leadership on the pitch, encompassing decisions about player invitations.

“Mikel Obi was too influential when he was in the Super Eagles. Because of his influence, he made it so that some players were not invited,” Onazi said.

The former Lazio midfielder suggested that Mikel’s stature as captain and senior figure allowed him to exert significant control during team selections.

Onazi specifically named Tony Nwakaeme, the former Trabzonspor forward, as one of the players allegedly affected by the situation.

He recounted an incident in Turkey where Mikel reportedly acknowledged his role and apologised directly to Nwakaeme.

“One of such players was Tony Nwakaeme. Mikel said it himself when we were eating in a restaurant in Istanbul, and he apologised to him,” Onazi explained.

Despite the allegations, Onazi maintained a respectful tone toward his former teammate, acknowledging Mikel’s seniority while expressing personal disappointment.

“He is my senior man, but there are things he did that I didn’t like,” Onazi added.