Nigeria mourns the loss of its 18th Police Chief and former Police Service Commission Chairman, remembered for his decades of service and leadership
Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished law enforcement officers, as former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Ehigiator Arase has reportedly died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja. The news of his passing emerged on Saturday, though, as of the time of filing this report, neither his family nor the Nigeria Police Force has released an official statement confirming the development.
Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, was widely respected for his professionalism, intelligence-driven policing style, and long-standing commitment to national security. His death marks the end of an era for many within the police community and beyond, as he was considered one of the finest officers of his generation.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase’s journey into law enforcement began after he studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, graduating in 1980. A year later, on December 1, 1981, he joined the Nigeria Police Force, embarking on a career that would span over three decades. Determined to broaden his academic and professional horizons, he later earned a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos.
Over the years, Arase distinguished himself in several high-profile roles within the police structure. Before ascending to the rank of Inspector-General, he was the head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, the police force’s top intelligence unit. He also served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State and later as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of intelligence. His international exposure included serving in Namibia on a United Nations peacekeeping mission, further shaping his reputation as a seasoned officer with both local and global experience.
Arase became Inspector-General of Police in 2015 and led the force until his retirement on June 21, 2016, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. During his tenure, he introduced reforms aimed at enhancing intelligence-led policing and improving the welfare of officers.
Following his retirement, his career in public service continued when, in January 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) by then-President Muhammadu Buhari. He held the position until June 2024 when President Bola Tinubu removed him from office. Despite his removal, he remained a respected voice in national security discourse and a mentor to younger officers.
A Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Arase left behind a legacy of discipline, reform, and professionalism. His death is seen as a significant loss to the nation’s security community, especially at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with diverse security challenges.
As tributes begin to pour in from colleagues, associates, and Nigerians who admired his service, the country reflects on the life of a man who dedicated over three decades to safeguarding its people. Official statements from his family and the police force are still being awaited.
0 Comments