Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, the Chief Judge of Ogun State, highlighted the essential role of the judiciary in the development of sports during a novelty football match held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta. She explained that the judiciary offers a legal framework that supports accountability and protects the rights of stakeholders within the sports community. This framework is particularly crucial when internal sporting bodies are unable to resolve disputes independently, indicating a need for judicial intervention to ensure fair play and natural justice.

In her address, Justice Dipeolu categorized the judiciary's function in sports into four key areas: oversight of sports governing bodies, protecting athletes' rights, ensuring transparency and accountability within sports organizations, and serving as a mediator in disputes that arise in the competitive landscape. This perspective is significant as it underscores the need for a structured legal approach to support sports development, especially in a system that is often characterized by self-regulation among sporting bodies.

The Chief Judge made these remarks on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Ogun State Judiciary, thereby linking the judiciary's historical significance to contemporary issues in sports management. By emphasizing the judiciary's proactive approach in safeguarding the interests of sports stakeholders, Justice Dipeolu calls for ongoing collaboration between the legal system and sports organizations in order to foster a more equitable and just sporting environment.