Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished police officers, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the age of 69. According to family sources, the former IGP died after a brief illness at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja.
Arase was born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government, Edo State, and dedicated over three decades of his life to law enforcement and national security. He rose through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force, becoming the 18th Inspector-General of Police (IGP) after Suleiman Abba’s removal.
Before his appointment as IGP, Arase headed the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, Nigeria’s highest intelligence-gathering unit. He also served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State and played key roles in various intelligence and administrative departments.
In January 2023, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), where he worked until his death.
Throughout his career, Arase contributed immensely to national and international security, serving in UN peacekeeping missions in Namibia, engaging in intelligence reform, and consulting for institutions like the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the European Centre for Electoral Support.
He held multiple degrees, including Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Law from the University of Benin, and a Master’s from the University of Lagos. After his retirement in 2016, he also ventured into legal practice, public speaking, and academic research.
His death was officially confirmed in a statement by Force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, extending condolences to his family and the nation.
Arase’s legacy as a reform-driven police leader, legal mind, and national security consultant will be remembered for years to come.
