Nigeria mourns Ex IGP Solomon Arase, who passed at 69 after a brief illness. His legacy spans police reform, reform, intelligence leadership and public service.
Nigeria woke on August 31, 2025, to the solemn news: Solomon Ehigiator Arase, the nation’s 18th Inspector-General of Police (IGP), passed away at age 69 after a brief illness at Cedarcrest (Cedercrest) Hospital in Abuja, according to a family statement released by his son, Solomon Arase Jr.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West, Edo State, Arase rose through the ranks of the Nigeria Police, joining in December 1981. A political science graduate from Ahmadu Bello University, he later earned legal qualifications from the University of Benin and a master’s degree from the University of Lagos.
Arase held key roles—most notably as head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau—before serving as IGP from April 2015 until retirement in June 2016. His leadership introduced reforms like the Intelligence Response Team and the Complaint Response Unit to enhance police accountability.
Beyond the Police Uniform
Following retirement, Arase carried his service into other national roles. In January 2023, President Buhari appointed him Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a body overseeing police recruitment and promotions. He held that role until June 2024 under President Tinubu’s administration.
He also served the legal community as part of the Body of Benchers, contributing to legal oversight and professional standards.
The Passing and Family Tribute
His family described him as a “man who served with distinction,” and requested understanding and prayers from the public while funeral arrangements are finalized.
The Nigeria Police Force’s spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the development and said an official statement would follow soon.
What Nigerians Remember
Social media and news platforms lit up with condolences. Many reflected on Arase’s efforts toward policing reforms—a legacy that includes the introduction of mechanisms aimed at safeguarding civil rights and increasing professionalism within the force.
Summary Table
| Focus Area | Highlights |
| Passing | Died at 69 on Aug 31, 2025 after brief illness in Abuja |
| IGP Tenure | April 2015 – June 2016 |
| Post-Retirement | PSC Chairman (Jan 2023 – June 2024), Body of Benchers member |
| Reforms Introduced | CRU, Intelligence Response Team, Safer Highway Patrols |
| Legacy | Champion of police accountability and legal professionalism |
