Former Super Eagles forward Jonathan Akpoborie has reacted to the ongoing dispute involving John Obi Mikel, Samson Siasia, and football agent John Shittu, urging all three to end their public outburst and resolve the matter privately.
Akpoborie’s comments come in the wake of a bribery allegation made by Siasia, a legal threat from Shittu, and widespread media fallout.
The controversy began after Samson Siasia, in a recent interview, alleged that Shittu offered him a €50,000 bribe to include Mikel Obi in Nigeria’s squad for the 2008 Beijing Olympics — despite Mikel not featuring in the qualifying matches.
Shittu swiftly denied the claim and, through legal representatives, demanded a public retraction and ₦250 million in damages for defamation.
Mikel, who later captained Nigeria at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has not publicly addressed the bribery allegation but previously admitted he used personal funds to support the team’s preparations in Rio.
Speaking exclusively on BrilaFM , Akpoborie expressed disappointment at how the matter has played out in the media.
“I know all three [Mikel, Siasia, Shittu] as friends. The matter should not have been made public. I believe Samson’s [Siasia] response was a bit harsh.
Shittu’s reaction was expected, because he would definitely not want to soil his name,” Akpoborie said.
He further urged the parties involved to refrain from fueling the situation through statements or interviews.
“I am appealing to the three of them. I don’t want to be debating on who is right or wrong. They are responsible enough to talk things out in private,” he added.
