The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Seyi Makinde’s request to proceed on annual leave, paving the way for Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal to oversee the affairs of the state during the governor’s absence.
According to the governor’s letter, the leave takes effect from August 10 and ends on September 11. Governor Makinde will officially resume office on September 14, 2026.
The approval followed the consideration of a formal correspondence from Governor Makinde during plenary, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires a governor to notify the legislature whenever he intends to be away from office.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the plenary in the absence of the Speaker, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, on Thursday, read the governor’s letter before members.
The lawmakers unanimously granted the request and expressed confidence in the seamless continuity of governance in the state under the deputy governor.
In the letter, Governor Makinde informed the Assembly of his intention to embark on annual leave and requested the approval of the House to enable the Deputy Governor to act on his behalf throughout the period of his absence.
Following the approval, the House affirmed that Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal would oversee the day-to-day administration of the state, ensuring that government activities continue uninterrupted until Governor Makinde resumes duty.
Speaking after the approval, the Deputy Speaker wished the governor a peaceful and refreshing leave, and noted that the legislature remained committed to sustaining cordial relations with the executive arm in the interest of the people of Oyo State.
He also expressed confidence in the capacity of the Deputy Governor to provide effective leadership during the period, as demonstrated in the past. He described the state’s governance structure as stable and capable of guaranteeing continuity in policy implementation.
Lawmakers, in separate remarks, commended Governor Makinde for complying with constitutional provisions by formally notifying the House, describing the action as another demonstration of respect for the rule of law and democratic governance.
The Assembly subsequently directed that its resolution approving the governor’s annual leave be communicated to the executive arm for necessary action.
