Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has questioned President Bola Tinubu’s decision not to formally transfer presidential authority to Vice-President Kashim Shettima during his recent absence from the country.

Makinde raised the issue on Friday after returning to office from his annual leave, during which Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal served as Acting Governor.

The Oyo governor said his decision to allow his deputy to oversee the state while he was away demonstrated that government business could continue effectively through constitutional arrangements and teamwork.

Makinde said he had instructed Lawal to take charge of the state’s affairs during his absence, adding that any issues arising during that period could be addressed when he returned.

He then questioned why the President did not similarly transfer authority to the Vice-President while away on leave.

The governor’s comments came as he was welcomed back to office by the acting governor, government officials, labour representatives and civil servants. His annual leave had been scheduled to run from August 10 to September 11, with his resumption expected afterward.

Makinde Extends Workers’ Support Measures

During his return, Makinde also announced the continuation of measures introduced to cushion the effects of rising living costs.

He approved the renewal of the wage award for Oyo State civil servants for another three months and directed that the state’s transport subsidy should continue.

According to the governor, the measures are intended to reduce the impact of higher petrol prices and other economic pressures on workers and residents.

Makinde called for further discussions between labour leaders and the state government, saying his administration was aware of the economic difficulties facing residents.

He disclosed that the state’s monthly wage bill had increased substantially since 2019, rising from about ₦4.5 billion to ₦18 billion, while the minimum wage had increased from ₦18,000 to ₦80,000 during the same period.

Governor Commends Acting Governor

Makinde praised Lawal for overseeing the affairs of Oyo State during his absence and said he was satisfied with the way governance continued throughout the period.

He also thanked civil servants for cooperating with the acting governor.

The governor used the occasion to discuss the importance of the upcoming 2027 elections, telling workers and residents that decisions made during the election would influence the future direction of the state.

Makinde Rejects Loan Diversion Allegation

Makinde also dismissed an allegation by the All Progressives Congress that his administration planned to divert a €55 million French loan toward his presidential campaign.

He described the allegation as unfounded and maintained that the facility was intended for healthcare-related projects, including the improvement and upgrading of health facilities across Oyo State.

The governor’s return marked the end of the period in which his deputy had been responsible for the day-to-day administration of the state.