Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri on Friday paid a condolence visit to the family of former Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Turner Isoun, in Abuja.
The Bayelsa-born scholar, who served as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the then University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University), Port Harcourt, died on July 15, 2026, at the age of 87.
Diri, speaking on behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, extended condolences to the late professor’s wife, children, extended family and the Odi community.
He described Isoun as a statesman, leader and activist whose contributions had positively impacted many lives across the Ijaw nation and Nigeria.
The governor characterised his relationship with the late academic as that of a father and son, recalling a visit the previous year during which he was warmly received.
“Personally, I lost a father, a leader and an uncle. I remember visiting him here last year, and I took photographs with him and our mother, his wife. I’m aware of how she took care of him until his passing, and I want to appreciate you for being there for him.
"Since you came into this family, you have been an anchor, raising your children and, at the same time, taking care of us who are not your biological children,” he said.
Diri urged the family to accept the death as the will of God and find comfort in the enduring legacies Isoun left behind, particularly in the struggle for resource control, the creation of Bayelsa State and environmental protection.
He recalled an incident after the execution of Ogoni rights activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, when, as National Organising Secretary of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), he and others sought signatures for a letter criticising the Federal Government.
Isoun, then chairman of the INC Central Zone, signed the letter without hesitation, underscoring his commitment to Ijaw causes.
Diri also highlighted Isoun’s role in mentoring young people on environmental protection, including work related to the Wetland Centre in Yenagoa.
Responding on behalf of the family, Isoun’s son, Diseye Isoun, thanked the governor and his delegation for the visit, saying they felt humbled and comforted by the gesture.
He also expressed gratitude to the Ijaw nation, Nigerians and friends worldwide for their support and prayers.
Isoun’s wife, Miriam, recalled their shared work and partnership over the years, noting that they supported each other as they aged.
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