The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has suspended football fan Jamilu Murtala, popularly known as Bahago, from all league activities with immediate effect following concerns over alleged threats and disturbances involving match officials and visiting teams.
The decision followed a complaint by Ranchers Bees, who currently use the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano as their temporary home ground for NPFL fixtures.
The Kaduna-based club reportedly raised concerns about the access allegedly granted to Murtala by the host state football association to restricted areas of the stadium during home matches.
In its complaint to the league, Ranchers Bees reportedly distanced itself from the fan and raised concerns about his alleged conduct during matches, including possible implications for the safety of match officials and visiting teams.
The club also questioned his reported presence in areas ordinarily reserved for authorised personnel, including match officials, players and accredited team representatives.
Following the complaint, the NPFL ordered Murtala’s immediate suspension from league activities. The measure is intended to address the concerns raised and support a secure environment for officials, teams and other stakeholders.
The development has also drawn attention to the enforcement of stadium access regulations and the responsibilities of host football associations and venue authorities in controlling entry to restricted areas.
Although the suspension took effect immediately, the available reports did not specify how long it would remain in place.
For Ranchers Bees, the decision follows its appeal for intervention over the alleged conduct and access arrangements surrounding matches at its temporary home venue in Kano.
The club is scheduled to travel to Ibadan on Sunday to face Shooting Stars, while its next home fixture is scheduled for October 25 against Doma United.
As the 2026/2027 NPFL season continues, the suspension highlights the importance of stadium security, discipline and respect for match officials.
Ensuring that players, referees, visiting teams and supporters can participate in and attend matches in a safe environment remains central to the integrity of the competition.
