The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of its 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police and former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who died in the early hours of Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was 69.
In a statement Force Public Relations Officer For: Inspector-General of Police Force Headquarters, Abuja DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the news was officially communicated to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, by the late Arase’s first son, Solomon Osabohien Arase Jnr.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase had an illustrious career in law enforcement after joining the Nigeria Police Force in December 1981. He held several key positions, including Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, pioneer AIG of the Force Intelligence Bureau, and DIG in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department.
He was appointed IGP in April 2015 and retired in June 2016. In January 2023, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a role he held until June 2024. A Fellow of the Defence College and a member of the Body of Benchers, Arase was also an advocate of police reforms, introducing initiatives such as the Complaint Response Unit to enhance accountability and protect citizens’ rights.
Beyond policing, he supported education through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which provided scholarships to children of deceased police officers and indigent students.
On Sunday, IGP Egbetokun paid a condolence visit to the family in Abuja, describing Arase as a patriot who served with pride and honour. He extended condolences on behalf of the Force, praying for strength and comfort for the family and all who mourn him.
Arase’s legacy of professionalism, service, and commitment to national security remains etched in the history of the Nigeria Police Force.
