Nigeria has lost one of its notable police chiefs, as former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase has died at the age of 69.
Arase reportedly breathed his last on Sunday at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja. As of press time, neither his family nor the Nigeria Police Force had released an official statement regarding his passing.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase earned a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University in 1980 before joining the police the following year. He later obtained a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos, cementing his reputation as one of the most academically accomplished officers of his time.
During his career, he headed the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau before being appointed the country’s 18th Inspector-General of Police. He served in that capacity until June 21, 2016, when he retired upon reaching the statutory age limit.
In 2023, Arase was appointed chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), though his tenure was cut short after he was removed by President Bola Tinubu last year.
Arase’s death marks the end of a distinguished career in public service, where he was widely regarded for his professionalism and intellect.
