The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Seyi Makinde’s request to proceed on his annual leave, with Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, set to take over as Acting Governor during the period.
The governor’s leave will commence on August 10 and end on September 11, 2026, while he is expected to resume official 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 1999 Constitution, which requires a governor to notify the state legislature before proceeding on leave or travelling out of office.
The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the sitting in the absence of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, read the governor’s letter before lawmakers.
Members unanimously approved the request and expressed confidence that governance would continue smoothly under the leadership of the deputy governor.
With the Assembly’s approval, Barr. Bayo Lawal will serve as Acting Governor and oversee the day-to-day administration of the state throughout Governor Makinde’s absence.
In his letter, Makinde informed the lawmakers of his intention to embark on his annual leave and sought their approval to enable the deputy governor act on his behalf during the period.
Following the approval, the House affirmed that government activities would continue uninterrupted until the governor returns to office.
Speaking after the resolution was adopted, the Deputy Speaker wished Governor Makinde a peaceful and refreshing vacation, stressing that the Assembly remained committed to maintaining a cordial working relationship with the executive arm in the interest of the people of Oyo State.
He also expressed confidence in the ability of Deputy Governor Lawal to provide effective leadership, describing the state’s governance structure as stable and capable of ensuring continuity in policy implementation.
Lawmakers, in separate contributions, commended Governor Makinde for complying with constitutional provisions by formally notifying the Assembly before proceeding on leave, describing the move as a 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.
