Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has claimed that ex-Nigeria captain John Mikel Obi wielded significant influence within the national team during his playing days, allegedly to the extent that some players missed out on international invitations.

Speaking on the Home Turf podcast, Onazi alleged that Mikel’s stature in the squad impacted selection decisions, naming Tony Nwakaeme as one of the players who he believes was affected. Nwakaeme, who went on to enjoy a successful club career, earned just one cap for Nigeria during that period.

“Mikel was too influential when he was in the Super Eagles,” Onazi said. “When he was playing, there were some players who, because of his influence, did not get invited into the national team.” He specifically referenced Nwakaeme as an example.

Onazi further revealed that Mikel later apologised to Nwakaeme during a meeting at a restaurant in Istanbul, suggesting the incident was not isolated.

Despite the allegations, the former Lazio midfielder spoke warmly about Mikel’s impact on his own career, describing the former Chelsea star as a major source of inspiration within the squad.

According to Onazi, Mikel frequently returned from England with football boots, jerseys and even financial support, which he shared among teammates. Onazi described himself as one of the beneficiaries, calling it a privilege to have played alongside the former Premier League winner.

“Mikel was a big player. He inspired us a lot,” Onazi said. “When Chelsea and Manchester United were fighting for his signature, it made me believe that if someone I saw every day could reach that level, then I could also make it. Whenever he came back from Chelsea, he brought boots, jerseys and even shared money with some of us. I benefited from that, and it was a privilege to play with him.”
Onazi also addressed moments of disagreement on the pitch, noting that while clashes did occur, respect was never lost.

“There were times we disagreed during games. He would ask for the ball even when other players were free. But after matches, I always went to apologise because he was my senior. That never changed our relationship. I was always his boy,” he added.

The relationship later extended beyond the national team, with Onazi, Mikel and Nwakaeme all reuniting at Trabzonspor in 2019. Speaking to The Punch at the time, Onazi revealed that he played a key role in persuading the club to sign Mikel.

“The club president asked me about Mikel, and I told them everything they needed to know about how good he could be for the team,” Onazi said. “I pushed them to sign him at any cost because I knew what he would bring. I did the same when Anthony Nwakaeme was on the club’s radar. I also helped convince Mikel to choose Trabzonspor ahead of other Turkish clubs.”