Diri Pays Condolence Visit to Family of Late Ex-Minister Turner Isoun

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has paid a condolence visit to the family of former Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Turner Isoun, following the elder statesman's death at the age of 87. Diri visited the family in Abuja, where he sympathised with the widow, children, relatives and the people of Odi community on behalf of the Bayelsa State Government and its citizens.

Describing the late Isoun as an outstanding patriot, scholar and advocate for the Niger Delta, Diri said the Ijaw nation and Nigeria had lost a statesman whose contributions to education, science, environmental advocacy and public service would remain unforgettable. He recalled Isoun's role in the struggle for resource control, the creation of Bayelsa State and the advancement of the Ijaw cause.

The governor also spoke about his personal relationship with the late professor, describing it as one of a father and son. He praised Isoun's wife for her dedication and care throughout her husband's lifetime, noting that she had also played a motherly role to many beyond her immediate family.

Diri urged the bereaved family to take solace in the exemplary life Isoun lived and the enduring legacy he left behind. He stressed that although his passing was painful, his contributions to nation-building and the development of Bayelsa State would continue to inspire future generations.

Professor Turner Isoun, a renowned academic, was the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the former University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, now Rivers State University. He later served as Nigeria's Minister of Science and Technology and remained an influential voice on issues affecting the Niger Delta until his death on July 15, 2026.