IGP Egbetokun Leads Police Condolences as Former IGP Solomon Arase Dies at 69

IGP Egbetokun Leads Police Condolences as Former IGP Solomon Arase Dies at 69

ABUJA — The Nigeria Police Force on Sunday announced the death of former Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, NPM, fdc, FCIA (Rtd.).

Arase, the 18th indigenous IGP, died in the early hours of Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was 69.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, confirmed the news after being informed by the late IGP’s first son, Mr. Solomon Osabohien Arase Jr. He later visited the family in Abuja, describing the death as a “painful loss” to the Force and the nation.

Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase joined the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, after earning a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He later obtained a Law degree from the University of Benin, a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos, and a Ph.D. in Public Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

In his distinguished career, he served as Principal Staff Officer to three IGPs, Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, pioneer Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau, and Deputy Inspector-General at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID). He was appointed the 18th indigenous IGP in April 2015 and retired on June 21, 2016.

In January 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, a position he held until June 2024. A Fellow of the Defence College and a member of the Body of Benchers, Arase was also the founder of the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which awarded scholarships to children of deceased police officers and indigent students.

During his tenure as IGP, he established the Complaint Response Unit (CRU), a reform initiative designed to improve citizens’ access to justice and enhance accountability in policing.

“The contributions of the late Police boss to police reforms and national security will remain unforgettable. His memory will forever be etched in the heart of the Force and the nation he faithfully served,” IGP Egbetokun said while consoling the family.

Arase is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.