The nation mourns the passing of one of its most distinguished law enforcement leaders. Former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, died today at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja following a brief illness. He was 69 years old.
Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police from 2015 to 2016, was widely respected for his commitment to police reform, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement. His tenure was marked by initiatives aimed at improving professionalism and restoring public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
Born in Benin City, Edo State, in 1956, Arase joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1981 after earning a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University. He later obtained a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos. His career included key roles such as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, and Assistant Inspector-General in charge of intelligence.
Following his retirement in 2016, Arase continued to serve the country as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, overseeing recruitment, discipline, and promotions within the force. He was also a member of the Body of Benchers, contributing to the regulation of Nigeria’s legal profession.
His family, in a statement released by his son, Solomon Arase Jr., expressed deep sorrow and described him as “a man who served Nigeria with distinction, leaving a lasting legacy in both the security and legal sectors.” Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.