Former Nigeria U23 coach, Samson Siasia, has sparked controversy after revealing that he turned down a €50,000 bribe allegedly offered by John Obi Mikel’s agent ahead of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Speaking in an explosive interview with Elegbete TV Sports, the ex-Super Eagles handler recounted events leading up to the Olympic tournament, including a behind-the-scenes fallout with Mikel and a principled stand he says cost the Chelsea midfielder a place in the squad.
According to Siasia, Mikel declined to participate in the qualification campaign, ignoring repeated calls to join the team despite limited playing time at Stamford Bridge.
“I told him we only had one more match against Ghana and begged him to help us. He said no, that he was playing at Chelsea. I told him if he doesn’t come, he won’t be part of the Olympics,” Siasia stated.
Nigeria eventually secured qualification with a goalless draw against Ghana.
It was only after this achievement, Siasia claims, that Mikel expressed interest in joining the team — allegedly via a monetary incentive.
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“After we qualified, his agent called and said he would give me €50,000 if I allowed Mikel to play,” Siasia claimed. “I refused. I couldn’t drop any of the boys who helped us qualify. It wasn’t about money.”
However, Siasia’s assertions have come under scrutiny.
Historical match data shows that Mikel had actually started four consecutive Premier League matches for Chelsea before the Ghana tie and continued as a starter afterwards — casting doubt on the claim that he was merely a benchwarmer.
The revelation has reignited debate among fans and analysts about transparency, favoritism, and merit in national team selections — a familiar shadow over Nigerian football.
Mikel, now retired, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations.