The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Sunday expressed deep shock over the passing of his predecessor, former IGP Solomon Ehigiator Arase, describing his death as a painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Nigeria Police confirmed that Arase, the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, died in the early hours of Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness.
The statement noted that the sad news was formally conveyed to IGP Egbetokun by Arase’s first son, Solomon Osabohien Arase.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase had an illustrious academic and professional career.
He studied political science at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, earned a law degree from the University of Benin, obtained a master’s in law from the University of Lagos, and later capped his academic pursuit with a PhD in public law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
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Arase enlisted in the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, and rose through the ranks, serving in several key positions, 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 DIG at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID).
He was appointed the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 and retired in June 2016. In January 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission by former President Muhammadu Buhari, a position he held until June 2024.
During his tenure as IGP, he introduced key reforms, including the establishment of the Complaint Response Unit to ensure swift responses to public complaints and safeguard citizens’ rights.
His leadership was marked by professionalism, courage, and commitment to police reform and national security.
Beyond policing, Arase also contributed to education through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which provided scholarships for outstanding students, particularly children of deceased police officers and underprivileged Nigerians.
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IGP Egbetokun, who paid a condolence visit to the family in Abuja, extended heartfelt sympathies on behalf of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force. He prayed for comfort and strength for the family while assuring them that Arase’s legacy will remain indelible.
“The memory of late IGP Arase will forever remain etched in the heart of the Force and the country he so faithfully served. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Egbetokun said.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
