POWER TRANSITION: Makinde Proceeds on Annual Leave, Transmits Power to Deputy Gov Bayo Lawal

By David Alani Ige

July 23, 2026

       

Governor Bayo Lawal
Acting Governor Oyo State 

In strict compliance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Oyo State House of Assembly has officially approved Governor Seyi Makinde’s request to proceed on his annual leave. 

This legislative approval formally paves the way for the state's Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, to assume full responsibilities as the Acting Governor during the duration of the leave.

The approval was granted during the Assembly's plenary on Thursday after the House considered a formal letter transmitted by Governor Makinde, notifying the legislature of his temporary exit from office.

The Constitutional Handover

Presiding over the legislative session in the absence of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi, read the governor’s correspondence to the lawmakers. 

According to the official communication, Governor Makinde’s leave will commence on August 10, 2026, and conclude on September 11, 2026. The governor is scheduled to officially resume office on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Following the reading of the letter, the Assembly unanimously approved the request, affirming that Acting Governor Bayo Lawal will oversee the day-to-day administration of the state to ensure seamless and uninterrupted governance throughout the period.

Vote of Confidence

The state lawmakers used the opportunity to express their full confidence in Barr. Bayo Lawal’s capacity to provide effective and steady leadership, citing his extensive experience and previous stellar performances in acting roles. 

“The House is confident in the seamless continuity of governance in the state under the deputy governor,” the Assembly noted in its official resolution.

Speaking shortly after the approval was granted, Deputy Speaker Fadeyi wished Governor Makinde a peaceful, refreshing, and well-deserved leave. He reiterated that the legislature remains deeply committed to sustaining its cordial relationship with the executive arm in the best interest of Oyo State residents. 

Hon. Fadeyi further described the governance structure of Oyo State as highly stable and fully capable of guaranteeing the unbroken implementation of the administration's policies.

Members of the House also commended Governor Makinde for his unshakeable adherence to the rule of law and democratic tenets by formally notifying the legislative arm before stepping aside. 

The House has directed that its resolution be immediately transmitted to the executive arm for necessary action.

David Alani Ige

Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief, Ayekooto Media

Phunshor01@gmail.com | publisher@ayekootomediang.com

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