"I Told Them A Resounding NO And Left"- Super Eagles Midfielder Ogenyi Onazi Reacts To Match Fixing Allegation

This is not the best time for Lazio midfielder,
Ogenyi Onazi who was allegedly named in a
match-fixing scandal involving football agent,
Henry Chukwuma Okoroji.


But the player of My People's Football Club, who is currently with the Super Eagles of Nigeria in USA on the road to Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup, said he won't be disturbed by the false allegation, adding that his loyalty remain with his fatherland and the senior national team.


He said that he won't be part of anything that will bring disrepute to the name of Nigeria and the Eagles.


"Let me reassure all that I remain competitive and will never accede to any plan to bring the game of football to disrepute. My loyalty towards Nigerians and to the mantra of Fair play remains unwavering. I and my colleagues remain resolute and focused. We will take this on the chin and move on," Onazi said.


The Nigerian international took to Twitter following match-fixing claims. Agent Okoroji was caught on camera telling an undercover reporter that he could fix the outcome of matches at this summer's World Cup.


Lazio midfielder Ogenyi was present at the meeting, as he reportedly offered to ensure a yellow card for over £40,000 and a penalty for more than £80,000.


But the 21-year-old has now taken to his social media account to clarify his position and reiterate his opposition to any such activity.

"My attention has been drawn to a publication relating to issues about match fixing," he tweeted.

"First, let me state unequivocally that I have no link whatsoever to any individual or group with ties to the corrupt issues of match fixing.


"A certain Mr. Okoroji was mentioned in the publication.
My previous contact with Mr. Okoroji was based on the fact that we are both Nigerians.


"As a matter of fact, I am surprised to learn that Mr. Okoroji is a FIFA licensed agent.

"On the day of this meeting, he had earlier told me that his associates had an endorsement proposition for my consideration.


"I duly informed my friend and who manages my affairs.

"When I got to the meeting, I found out it was all about fixing matches. I told them a resounding NO and left.

These allegations come fresh on the heels of the news that the Super Eagles' clash with Scotland last week was being investigated after allegedly being targeted by criminal syndicates.

But Ogenyi has insisted both he and his teammates are ready to take all the talk on the chin and move forward.


"I thank my family, friends, fans and colleagues who have shown a sense of understanding and displayed love and support to me."