The Nigeria Police Force has announced the passing of its former Inspector-General, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, NPM, fdc, FCIA (Rtd.), who died in the early hours of Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was 69.
The news of his death was officially communicated to the incumbent Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, by Arase’s first son, Mr. Solomon Osabohien Arase Jnr.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase obtained his first degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He later bagged a Bachelor of Laws 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.
Arase enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, and rose through the ranks to serve in various key capacities, including Principal Staff Officer to three IGPs between 2002 and 2008, Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, pioneer Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau, and Deputy Inspector-General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department.
He was appointed the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 and retired on June 21, 2016. In January 2023, the late President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a role he held until June 10, 2024. He was also a Fellow of the Defence College and a member of the prestigious Body of Benchers.
During his tenure as IGP, Arase introduced notable reforms, including the establishment of the Complaint Response Unit, designed to provide swift redress to public complaints and protect citizens’ rights. Beyond policing, he supported education through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which provided scholarships to outstanding students, particularly children of deceased police officers and indigent youths.
In a condolence visit to the family in Abuja, IGP Egbetokun described Arase as “a visionary leader who exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, bravery, and leadership.” He extended condolences on behalf of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, praying for comfort and strength for the bereaved family.
“The memory of late IGP Arase will forever remain etched in the heart of the Force and the country he so faithfully served,” Egbetokun stated.
The Nigeria Police Force, in a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that his passing is not just the end of a remarkable chapter but a moment of collective mourning for a man who served with pride and honour.
May his soul rest in peace.
