The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has ordered the immediate suspension of Jamilu Murtala, popularly known as Bahago, from all league activities following complaints concerning his conduct during Ranchers Bees’ home matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
Sports247 reports that the disciplinary directive followed a formal complaint submitted by Ranchers Bees regarding the access allegedly granted to Murtala by the host State Football Association to restricted areas of the playing venue.
According to the club, Murtala’s presence around restricted matchday areas has repeatedly caused concerns during home fixtures, prompting management to seek intervention from the league authorities.
In their complaint, Ranchers Bees formally dissociated themselves from Murtala, making it clear that he does not represent the club in any official capacity. The club alleged that his activities had repeatedly disrupted the atmosphere surrounding their home matches.
Ranchers Bees also questioned the decision to grant him access to areas ordinarily reserved for authorised match officials, players, technical personnel and other accredited individuals.
The development raised concerns about the enforcement of stadium access regulations and the responsibility of relevant authorities to maintain order during league fixtures.
Responding to the complaint, the NPFL announced that Murtala had been suspended from all league activities with immediate effect. The league attributed the decision to what it described as continuous threats to safety involving match officials and visiting teams.
The directive represents a disciplinary intervention intended to prevent further incidents and ensure that league matches are conducted in a secure environment.
Although the league’s announcement did not specify the duration of the suspension, the restriction takes immediate effect.
The incident highlights the importance of maintaining strict security arrangements at NPFL venues, particularly in areas where players, referees and technical officials carry out their responsibilities.
Access to restricted sections of stadiums is generally controlled to protect participants and prevent interference with match operations.
The NPFL’s decision sends a message that conduct considered threatening to the safety of match officials or visiting teams will attract disciplinary attention.
For Ranchers Bees, the intervention is expected to address the concerns raised in their complaint and reinforce the importance of proper accreditation during home fixtures.
As the 2026/27 NPFL season continues, maintaining safe matchday environments remains essential to the credibility and smooth operation of the competition.
The latest directive also places renewed attention on the responsibility of host associations and stadium officials to ensure that access to restricted areas is properly managed.
With Jamilu Murtala now suspended from league activities, the NPFL has reinforced its position on stadium safety, while Ranchers Bees have made it clear that the individual concerned is not acting on behalf of the club.
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