By Ghazali Ibrahim
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has formally handed over the reins of government to his deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, as he prepares to embark on a one-month vacation.
The arrangement was communicated in a letter to the Oyo State House of Assembly, read by Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin during plenary on Tuesday.
In the letter, Makinde announced that his leave would run from August 29 to September 29, 2025, in line with Section 190(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which requires a governor to notify the legislature before proceeding on leave.
“I hereby transmit that during the period indicated above, the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, shall serve as Acting Governor. I shall resume duty upon my return from vacation on Monday, 29th September 2025,” the letter stated in part.
The Speaker assured that the Assembly would support a smooth transition of duties during Makinde’s absence, reaffirming the legislature’s commitment to constitutional order and the continuity of governance.
With the formal notification and legislative acknowledgment, Barr. Bayo Lawal will assume full responsibilities of the governor’s office from August 29 until Makinde’s return on September 29.
The House is expected to reconvene on September 16, 2025.
