Family of the retired Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has confirmed his death.
Arase died on Sunday, August 31, 2025 in a brief illness at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja.
Statement made available to Newsmen by his son, Solomon Arase (Junior), confirmed his father’s death.
The statement entitled: “Notification of the passing of Dr. Solomon Arase, CFR, NPM, FDC, Former Inspector General of Police, Federal Republic of Nigeria,” reads
“The Arase family of Benin-City, Edo State, hereby announces the passage of Solomon Ehigiator Arase, PhD., CFR, NPM, FDC, Former Inspector General of Police.“He passed on about 9 a.m. on Sunday 31st August, 2025, at the Cedercrest Hospital, Abuja, in a brief illness. He was aged 69.
“After a meritorious service as the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Arase served as Chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC).
“He was also a member of the Body of Benchers.
“The family seeks the understanding and prayers of friends, associates, and well-wishers at this difficult moment, as they make necessary arrangements for his obsequious which will be announced in due course”.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has paid tribute to Arase.
Okpebholo described Arase as a distinguished son of Edo, and a patriotic Nigerian whose legacy of service, professionalism and dedication to national security will be remembered for generations.
Arase, served as Nigeria’s 18th IGP
He was widely respected for his reforms in community policing and criminal justice administration.
Okpebholo’s condolence is contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Sunday in Benin.
The governor described Arase as a patriotic Nigerian and an illustrious Edo son whose contributions to the country’s security architecture were immeasurable.
He noted that late Arase was a man of integrity and honour who served the nation with distinction, rising to the pinnacle of his career through sheer hard work and dedication.The governor highlighted Arase’s distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force, particularly his tenure as the 18th IGP, which he said was marked by significant reforms and commitment to professionalism and community policing.
He added that Arase’s legacy of service would be remembered for generations, saying he was a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration to many young police officers and aspiring leaders.
Okpebholo prayed for the peaceful repose of Arase’s soul and for the Almighty God to grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
He also expressed solace in the fact that Arase lived a life of purpose, impacting positively on all who came into contact with him.
“Arase’s contributions to the Nigeria Police Force and the country’s security architecture will be remembered for a long time, and his legacy would continue to inspire many”, he said.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama