Mikel Slams Iwobi Over Hotel Video, Urges Professionalism Ahead of Key Matches
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has criticised midfielder Alex Iwobi for sharing a controversial video showing the Super Eagles’ hotel conditions in Morocco before Nigeria’s 4–1 victory over Gabon.
Iwobi had posted a silent video of the team’s lodging at Rive Hotel, Rabat, sparking online reactions as Nigerians questioned the Nigeria Football Federation’s preparedness for the World Cup playoff fixtures against Gabon and DR Congo.
Although the Fulham midfielder later clarified that the video was not intended as a complaint or criticism of the football authorities, Mikel insisted the timing was inappropriate.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, the Chelsea legend said the video should never have been posted so close to an important match.
Mikel said:
“Again, Alex Iwobi, that picture, maybe it was taken innocently and him posting it up. But as a player playing in Europe, living in a nice accommodation, you should have known better, two days before the game. Don’t put that up.”
He added that if he were still the captain, he would have demanded that Iwobi delete the post immediately to avoid unnecessary negativity around the team.
Nigeria eventually defeated Gabon 4–1 in extra time to advance, while DR Congo beat Cameroon in the other semi-final clash. However, the Super Eagles later lost the final playoff tie to DR Congo.
Opinion: Did Iwobi Cross the Line — or Is This a Wake-Up Call the NFF Needed?
Iwobi’s video triggered mixed feelings nationwide, and Mikel’s reaction reflects the tension between protecting team morale and holding football authorities accountable.
From Mikel’s perspective, timing is everything. Two days before a crucial World Cup playoff, anything that could invite controversy or distract the squad is understandably a concern. A captain’s instinct is to preserve unity and keep external noise to a minimum.
But looking deeper, Iwobi’s post—intentional or not—highlighted an issue many Nigerian fans are tired of: repeated concerns over the national team’s welfare and preparation. Whether it was meant as a harmless clip or a subtle hint, the fact that the video resonated so strongly online shows the public’s frustration.
The bigger question is: Why do Nigerian players constantly find themselves in conditions that become talking points?
And why must players be the ones to “know better,” instead of authorities ensuring there’s nothing questionable to show in the first place?
Mikel’s call for professionalism is valid, but so is the public desire for transparency. Nigerian fans want the best for their team, and sometimes, even small details like accommodation become symbols of deeper structural problems.
In the end, Iwobi’s video reflects two realities:
Players must be careful with what they share.
The NFF must improve standards so there is nothing embarrassing to hide.
Both sides have lessons to learn — and Nigerian football can only grow when honesty and professionalism work together, not against each other.
