A Legacy of Service: The Life and Times of Solomon Ehigiator Arase, Former Inspector-General of Police
The Nigerian Police Force and the nation at large mourn the passing of Solomon Ehigiator Arase, the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police (IGP), who died on July 22, 2024, at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness. Arase, aged 69, left behind a legacy of dedicated service, marked by significant contributions to police reform, national security, and community development. His death, confirmed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes, reflecting the profound impact he had on the police force and the country as a whole. The current IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, personally conveyed his condolences to the Arase family, acknowledging the immeasurable void left by the former IGP’s demise.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase’s journey was one of academic excellence and unwavering commitment to public service. His educational background included a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, a Law degree from the University of Benin, a Master’s in Law from the University of Lagos, and a Ph.D. in Public Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. This solid academic foundation provided a strong intellectual base for his distinguished career in law enforcement. Joining the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, Arase steadily rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication at every stage. His career trajectory showcased a commitment to serving the nation and upholding the principles of justice.
Arase’s career path within the police force was marked by a series of increasingly responsible positions. He served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, a role that provided valuable experience in managing diverse security challenges. He was also the pioneer Assistant Inspector-General of the Force Intelligence Bureau, where he played a crucial role in gathering and analyzing intelligence to enhance national security. Furthermore, he served as Deputy Inspector-General of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, honing his investigative skills and contributing to the pursuit of justice. Each of these roles prepared him for the ultimate responsibility of leading the entire police force.
His appointment as IGP in April 2015 marked a pivotal moment in his career and in the history of the Nigerian Police Force. During his tenure, which lasted until his retirement on June 21, 2016, Arase implemented significant reforms aimed at modernizing the force and enhancing its responsiveness to public concerns. One of his key initiatives was the establishment of the Complaint Response Unit, a crucial step towards ensuring accountability and building public trust. This initiative demonstrated his commitment to citizen-centric policing and his recognition of the importance of addressing public grievances effectively. He also focused on improving the welfare of police officers, recognizing that a well-supported force is essential for effective law enforcement.
Arase’s impact extended beyond his tenure as IGP. Through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation, he championed education and provided scholarships to deserving Nigerian students, particularly children of deceased police officers and indigent students. This philanthropic endeavor underscored his belief in the transformative power of education and his commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders. His legacy of service continued to inspire even after his retirement, reflecting his enduring dedication to the betterment of society. The foundation stands as a testament to his commitment to education and his desire to empower young people to achieve their full potential.
The passing of Solomon Ehigiator Arase is a significant loss to the Nigerian Police Force and the nation as a whole. His life and career exemplify the qualities of dedication, professionalism, and a deep commitment to public service. He will be remembered not only for his significant contributions to police reform and national security but also for his compassion and his unwavering belief in the power of education. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of law enforcement officers and public servants to strive for excellence and serve their communities with integrity and dedication. The void left by his passing is immense, but his contributions to the nation will endure.
