The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of Solomon Ehigiator Arase, the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission.
Arase, aged 69, died on Sunday at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the development in a statement, disclosing that the news was formally relayed to the current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, by the deceased’s eldest son, Mr. Solomon Osabohien Arase Jr.
IGP Egbetokun later visited the family in Abuja to commiserate with them on behalf of the entire police force, describing the late Arase as an exceptional reformer whose legacy will remain indelible in the institution.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase had a distinguished academic background. He earned a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; a Law degree from the University of Benin; a Master’s in Law from the University of Lagos; and a Ph.D. in Public Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
He joined the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, and steadily rose through the ranks. His career saw him serve in critical positions, including Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, pioneer Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau, and Deputy Inspector-General of the Force Criminal Investigation Department.
Arase was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015, a position he held until his retirement on June 21, 2016.
During his tenure, he was widely credited with introducing key reforms, such as establishing the Complaint Response Unit to enhance accountability and protect citizens’ rights. His leadership was marked by professionalism, courage, and a commitment to strengthening police-citizen relations.
Beyond the Force, Arase was passionate about education. Through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation, he awarded scholarships to outstanding Nigerian students, with a special focus on children of fallen police officers and underprivileged students.
Paying tribute, IGP Egbetokun described his passing as “a deep pain” to the police community and the nation, noting that his legacy of service, reform, and dedication will endure for generations.
Punch News
