NPFL suspends Jamilu Murtala over alleged threats to officials

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has suspended Jamilu Murtala, popularly known as Bahago, from all league activities with immediate effect over allegations of repeated threats to match officials and visiting teams.

The decision followed a formal complaint by Ranchers Bees, who play their home matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, according to a report by Sports247.

The Kaduna-based club reportedly raised concerns about Murtala’s access to restricted areas of the stadium during its home fixtures, alleging that his presence had repeatedly disrupted matches.

Jamilu Murtala faces immediate suspension

In their petition to the NPFL, Ranchers Bees reportedly distanced themselves from Murtala, stating that he does not represent the club in any official capacity.

The club also questioned how he gained access to restricted matchday areas reserved for authorised personnel.

Following the complaint, the league moved to suspend Murtala, barring him from attending or participating in its activities with immediate effect.

The action underscores the NPFL’s concerns about matchday security and the need to protect match officials, players and visiting teams.

However, the allegations against Murtala have not been established as final disciplinary findings in the available report. The duration of the suspension and whether further disciplinary proceedings will follow remain unclear.

Ranchers Bees previously sanctioned by NPFL

The development comes after the NPFL sanctioned Ranchers Bees over security and disciplinary breaches during their Matchday 6 fixture against Rivers United.

In a decision dated September 29 and published on October 1, the league fined the club ₦5 million for failing to provide adequate security during the match.

The NPFL cited a failure to provide “adequate and effective security at the home match”, which allowed unauthorised persons to access restricted areas of the stadium.

The earlier sanction and the latest complaint involving Murtala have brought stadium access control and the safety of match officials back into focus.

Ranchers Bees prepare for Shooting Stars clash

Ranchers Bees are scheduled to travel to Ibadan to face Shooting Stars on Sunday as the 2026/27 NPFL season continues.

The Kaduna-based side will subsequently return to the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday, October 25, to host Doma United.

The suspension of Jamilu Murtala adds to the league’s ongoing efforts to address security concerns and maintain order at match venues.

Further details regarding the length of the suspension and any additional action against Murtala have yet to be provided in the report.

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