- * Describes Him As a Reformer, Dedicated Police Officer
By Cosmas Enahoro (Edo State Correspondent, in Benin City)
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on behalf of the people of Edo State, mourns the death of Nigeria's former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, an illustrious citizen of the state who passed on Sunday morning, August 31, 2025.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described the late IGP as a patriotic Nigerian and an illustrious Edo son whose contributions to the country's security architecture were immeasurable.
"We have lost a great mind, a dedicated public servant, and an exceptional leader," the statement read. "Dr. Arase was a man of integrity and honor who served our nation with distinction, rising to the pinnacle of his career through sheer hard work and dedication."
The Governor highlighted Arase’s distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force, noting that his tenure as the 18th Inspector-General of Police was marked by significant reforms and commitment to professionalism and community policing.
"His legacy of service will be remembered for generations. He was a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration to many young police officers and aspiring leaders," the statement added.
Late former Inspector General of Police, Dr Solomon Ehigiator Arase (left) with Mr Celestine Okafor, Publisher/Editor-in-chief, Nigerian NewsLeader Media Group.
The Governor extends his deepest sympathies to the Arase family and the entire Nigeria Police Force. "While we mourn his passing, we take solace in the fact that he lived a life of purpose, impacting positively on all who came in contact with him."
Governor Okpebholo prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed and for the Almighty God to grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
The news of the death of the amiable former police boss filtered in the public space on Sunday afternoon.
A statement by the Arase family signed by his son, Mr Solomon Arase Jnr., announced that Arase passed on at about 9 a.m. on Sunday August 31, 2025, at the Cedercrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was aged 69.
The family stated that "after a meritorious service as the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Arase served as chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC). He was also a member of the Body of Benchers.
The family seeks the understanding and prayers of friends, associates and well-wishers at this difficult moment, as they make necessary arrangements for his obsequious which will be announced in due course. NNL.
