Nigeria has lost one of its most respected police chiefs, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja at the age of 69.
Arase, Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, led the Force between 2015 and 2016 and later chaired the Police Service Commission (PSC) until 2024.
Known for reform-driven leadership, he established the Intelligence Response Team, Complaint Response Unit, and Safer Highway Patrols, measures that improved both security and accountability.
Born in Edo State in 1956, Arase studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University before joining the Force in 1981.
He later earned degrees in Law and Strategic Studies, serving in top roles including Commissioner of Police, Director of Intelligence, and UN peacekeeper in Namibia.
Even after retirement, Arase shaped policing reforms, particularly around election security. Through his foundation, SEAF, he funded scholarships for children of fallen officers and disadvantaged students.
Tributes describe him as a principled leader who combined intellect with compassion. His legacy, supporters say, rests not only on policing but on a vision for justice and social impact.
