FIFA sanctions Katsina United over unpaid N28m to ex-coach Bulus

FIFA has sanctioned Katsina United over the club’s failure to comply with a ruling in a contractual dispute involving former coach Tony Tope Bulus.

The club has been ordered to pay Bulus N28 million in compensation for the wrongful termination of his contract and a $5,000 fine to FIFA for failing to comply with an earlier ruling.

The decision was conveyed to Katsina United through the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, in a letter dated October 2, 2026.

FIFA gave the club 15 days from receipt of the letter to pay the outstanding amounts and submit proof of payment.

Failure to comply within the stipulated period could lead to a ban on registering new players, while further sanctions, including points deduction or relegation, could be imposed if the club continues to default.

The dispute followed Katsina United’s termination of Bulus’ contract in 2023. The coach subsequently sought legal redress over the decision.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport, CAS, ruled on June 30, 2026, that Katsina United should pay Bulus N28 million as compensation.

Katsina United chairman, Surajo Baba Malumfashi, declined to comment on the FIFA decision, saying he was not aware of the letter.