Oyo Assembly Approves Makinde’s Annual Leave, Deputy to Serve as Acting Governor

The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Seyi Makinde’s request to proceed on his annual leave, clearing the way for Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal to assume office as Acting Governor during the period.

The governor’s leave is scheduled to commence on August 10, 2026, and end on September 11, 2026. He is expected to officially resume his duties on September 14, 2026.

The approval followed the consideration of a formal letter from Governor Makinde during Thursday’s plenary, in line with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires a governor to notify the state legislature whenever he intends to be absent from office.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the session in the absence of Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, read the governor’s correspondence before members for deliberation.

Following its consideration, the House unanimously granted the request and expressed confidence that governance would continue seamlessly under the leadership of the deputy governor throughout the governor’s absence.

With the approval, Lawal will officially oversee the affairs of Oyo State as Acting Governor for the duration of Makinde’s annual leave, ensuring continuity in government operations and policy implementation.

In his letter to the Assembly, Governor Makinde informed lawmakers of his intention to embark on his annual leave and requested legislative approval to enable the deputy governor discharge the responsibilities of the office during the period.

The Assembly affirmed that the Acting Governor would supervise the day-to-day administration of the state to ensure that government activities and public services continue without interruption until the governor returns.

Speaking after the approval, Deputy Speaker Fadeyi wished Governor Makinde a peaceful and refreshing leave while reaffirming the legislature’s commitment to maintaining a cordial working relationship with the executive arm of government for the benefit of Oyo residents.

He also expressed confidence in Lawal’s ability to provide effective leadership, noting that the deputy governor had previously demonstrated competence whenever called upon to act. According to him, Oyo State’s governance structure remains stable and well-positioned to sustain uninterrupted administration throughout the governor’s temporary absence.