Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde will temporarily hand over power to his deputy, Bayo Lawal, after the Oyo State House of Assembly approved his request to proceed on annual leave.

The Assembly granted the approval during plenary on Thursday after considering Governor Makinde’s formal letter, which was submitted in line with constitutional provisions requiring a governor to notify the legislature before proceeding on any official absence.

According to the letter, the governor’s leave will begin on Monday, August 10, and end on September 11, while he is expected to resume office on September 14, 2026.

Deputy Speaker Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the sitting in place of Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, read the governor’s letter to members of the House. Lawmakers approved the request without opposition, expressing confidence that the affairs of the state would continue smoothly under the leadership of the deputy governor.

Following the approval, Lawal will serve as Acting Governor throughout the period of Makinde’s leave, taking charge of the day-to-day administration of the state to ensure that government activities continue without interruption until the governor returns.

Speaking after the approval, Fadeyi wished Governor Makinde a restful annual leave and reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to sustaining a healthy working relationship with the executive arm of government.

He also expressed confidence in the deputy governor’s ability to provide effective leadership while acting as governor, noting that Oyo State’s stable governance structure would ensure that policies and government programmes continue without disruption.

Other lawmakers also commended Governor Makinde for complying with constitutional requirements by formally notifying the House before proceeding on leave.

They described the move as another demonstration of his respect for democratic principles, constitutional governance and the rule of law.

At the end of the plenary, the House directed that its approval of the governor’s leave request be formally communicated to the executive arm for the necessary action.