Former Inspector-General of Police Solomon Arase Passes Away at 69
Nigeria’s security community is in mourning following the death of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away early Sunday morning at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness. Arase, aged 69, succumbed at approximately 9 a.m., as confirmed by his family and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
In a heartfelt statement, his son, Solomon Arase Jr., announced the news in a, describing the loss as a profound blow to the family from Benin City, Edo State. The NPF, through its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner Olumuyiwa Adejobi, expressed deep sorrow, noting that the news was personally conveyed to current IGP Kayode Egbetokun, who immediately visited the family to offer condolences on behalf of the force.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase was a distinguished scholar and public servant. He earned a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1980, followed by a Bachelor’s in Law from the University of Benin, a Master’s in Law from the University of Lagos, and a PhD in Public Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. Joining the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, Arase rose through the ranks with exemplary dedication, serving as Principal Staff Officer to three successive IGPs from 2002 to 2008, Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, and pioneer Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau. His appointment as the 18th indigenous IGP in April 2015 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan marked the pinnacle of his 35-year career, from which he retired on June 21, 2016, upon reaching the statutory age.
Arase’s tenure as IGP was transformative, characterized by bold reforms aimed at enhancing professionalism and public trust in the police. He established key initiatives such as the Intelligence Response Team for swift crime-fighting, the Complaint Response Unit to address misconduct and protect citizens’ rights, and the Safer Highway Patrols to bolster traveler security nationwide. Post-retirement, Arase continued his service as Chairman of the Police Service Commission from January 2023 until June 2024, appointed by then-President Muhammadu Buhari and later relieved by President Bola Tinubu. A Fellow of the National Defence College and member of the Body of Benchers, he also founded the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which provided scholarships to indigent students, particularly children of deceased police officers, underscoring his commitment to education and welfare.
Tributes poured in from across Nigeria, with President Tinubu hailing Arase as a “highly resourceful officer” whose legacy in national security would be deeply missed. IGP Egbetokun described the passing as a “sad one,” praising Arase’s bravery and leadership that resonated beyond the force. Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo called him an “exceptional leader” and proud son of Edo, while Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde lamented the loss of one of the “finest police officers” the country has produced, warning of a “huge vacuum” in the security sector. The family has requested prayers and understanding as they prepare for funeral arrangements, which will be announced soon. Arase’s death marks the end of an era, but his reforms and philanthropy ensure his influence endures.
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