The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Seyi Makinde’s request to proceed on his annual leave, with Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, set to serve as Acting Governor throughout the period of the governor’s absence.
Governor Makinde’s annual leave will commence on August 10 and end on September 11, 2026, while he is expected to officially resume office on September 14, 2026.
The approval followed the consideration of a formal letter from the governor during Thursday’s plenary sitting, in compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires a state governor to notify the House of Assembly whenever he intends to be absent from office.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the plenary in the absence of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, read the governor’s correspondence before lawmakers.
Members unanimously approved the request and expressed confidence in the ability of the Deputy Governor to ensure the smooth running of government during the governor’s leave.
In his letter, Governor Makinde informed the Assembly of his intention to embark on his annual leave and requested legislative approval for the Deputy Governor to act on his behalf throughout the period of his absence.
With the approval, Barrister Bayo Lawal will serve as Acting Governor and oversee the day-to-day administration of Oyo State, ensuring continuity in governance until Governor Makinde resumes official duties.
Speaking after the approval, Deputy Speaker Fadeyi wished Governor Makinde a peaceful and refreshing leave, while reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to maintaining cordial relations with the executive arm in the overall interest of the people of Oyo State.
He also expressed confidence in the leadership capacity of the Deputy Governor, noting his experience and describing the state’s governance structure as stable and capable of ensuring uninterrupted implementation of government policies and programmes.
Several lawmakers commended Governor Makinde for complying with constitutional requirements by formally notifying the Assembly of his planned leave, describing the action as a demonstration of his commitment to the rule of law, constitutional governance, and democratic accountability.
The House subsequently directed that its resolution approving the governor’s annual leave be communicated to the executive arm for necessary action.