(DDM) – Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished law enforcement officers with the passing of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Ehigiator Arase.
The former police chief reportedly died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja on Sunday, August 31, 2025, after what sources described as a brief illness.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that, as of press time, neither his family nor the Nigeria Police Force had released an official statement confirming the circumstances of his death.
Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, was widely regarded as a reform-minded officer who emphasized intelligence-driven policing and institutional discipline throughout his career.
Early life and academic excellence
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Solomon Ehigiator Arase demonstrated early promise both academically and in leadership.
He attended primary and secondary schools in Edo State before proceeding to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he graduated in 1980 with a degree in Political Science.
His passion for law enforcement and justice saw him join the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981.
While serving, Arase pursued further academic qualifications, earning a Law degree from the University of Benin and later a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos, where he specialized in Security Studies and Strategic Management.
His combined background in political science, law, and strategic security gave him a unique perspective on modern policing and reform.
Career trajectory and service to Nigeria
Arase began his police career as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police and rose steadily through the ranks over three decades.
He served in various operational and administrative capacities, gaining a reputation as a cerebral and disciplined officer.
One of his most notable roles was as the head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (CIIB), the apex intelligence-gathering unit of the Nigeria Police Force.
In this position, he prioritized data-driven investigations, advanced training for detectives, and the integration of forensic analysis in criminal cases.
He later served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, where his tenure was marked by improved community-police relations and reduced violent crime rates.
As Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of intelligence, he supervised critical national operations, including counter-terrorism strategies and cross-border security initiatives.
His international service included participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations in Namibia, where he gained recognition for his professional contributions to global security efforts.
Appointment as Inspector-General of Police
Arase was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan, becoming the 18th officer to occupy the position since Nigeria’s independence.
He took over from Suleiman Abba at a time when the nation faced escalating threats from Boko Haram insurgents, increasing cases of kidnapping for ransom, and widespread armed banditry.
Under his leadership, the Nigeria Police Force shifted focus toward intelligence-led operations, introducing crime-mapping systems, community policing frameworks, and specialized tactical units for rapid response to security threats.
He also placed emphasis on welfare reforms, including improved housing schemes for officers and measures to tackle corruption within the ranks.
Arase was instrumental in the development of the Nigeria Police Strategic Plan (2015–2019), which set out long-term goals for training, infrastructure development, and the modernization of forensic laboratories.
Retirement and post-service appointments
Arase retired from active police service on June 21, 2016, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
However, his expertise continued to be sought after at both national and international levels.
In January 2023, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), a body responsible for police recruitment, promotion, and disciplinary oversight.
During his tenure, he advocated for merit-based promotions, increased police accountability, and stronger oversight mechanisms to rebuild public confidence in the force.
However, in June 2024, President Bola Tinubu removed him from the position as part of sweeping changes within the commission.
Despite this, Arase remained a respected voice on policing, security policy, and national development until his death.
Legacy and impact
Arase’s career was defined by professionalism, reformist ideals, and a commitment to institutional integrity.
He championed the concept of intelligence-driven policing, urging officers to rely less on reactive methods and more on proactive crime prevention through data collection and community engagement.
His efforts helped to establish police training manuals on human rights, ethics, and operational discipline.
He also authored several academic papers on national security and law enforcement reforms, contributing to policy debates on crime reduction and policing efficiency in Nigeria.
Colleagues and subordinates recall his leadership style as approachable yet uncompromising on issues of integrity.
Tributes and national mourning
Tributes have begun to pour in from law enforcement circles, legal practitioners, civil society groups, and political leaders.
Former colleagues described him as a “gentleman officer” who combined intellectual depth with operational experience.
Security analysts predict that President Bola Tinubu and the Police Service Commission will issue formal tributes in the coming days, highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s security sector.
What next?
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced after consultations between his family, the Nigeria Police Force, and the federal government.
Observers expect a state-assisted burial in recognition of his service to the nation.
Arase is survived by his family, professional legacy, and a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most reform-minded police chiefs.
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