The late Solomon Ehigiator Arase, former Inspector-General of Police, left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s policing and security landscape.
The news of his death was confirmed by his family in a statement on Sunday.
He died at age 69 after an undisclosed illness at Cedercrest Hospital, Abuja, on Sunday
Here are 20 key highlights from his life and career:
1. Arase was born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area, Edo State, and grew up in a family that valued education and discipline
2. He studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, graduating in 1980, laying the foundation for his career in public service.
3. He later earned a Law degree from the University of Benin, enhancing his understanding of legal and civil frameworks.
4. He also obtained a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos, further strengthening his academic and professional credentials.
5. He completed advanced studies at the National Defence College, combining academic excellence with strategic and professional police training.
6. Arase was recruited into the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, marking the beginning of a distinguished law enforcement career.
7. He served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State and Assistant Inspector-General in charge of intelligence, overseeing critical security operations.
8. Arase participated in a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Namibia, gaining international experience in law enforcement and security.
9. He was a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy, reflecting his dedication to professional development and strategic leadership.
10. Arase was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015, taking charge of the nation’s top policing body.
11. He introduced reforms including the Police Complaints Response Unit to address misconduct and improve public trust in the police.
12. He created the Intelligence Response Team to manage high-profile crimes and enhance operational efficiency.
13. He issued a directive banning officers from searching citizens’ phones, strengthening civil liberties and human rights.
14. He advocated for forensic development, community policing, and improved welfare for rank-and-file officers, modernising Nigeria’s policing approach.
15. He chaired a task force in Edo State enforcing anti-Community Development Association laws, ensuring accountability and compliance in local governance.
16. Arase was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission in January 2023, serving until June 2024, promoting merit and transparency in the Force.
17. He promoted merit-based recruitment and transparency, aiming to professionalise and depoliticise police appointments and promotions.
18. The deceased founded the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation, providing scholarships in medicine, engineering, security studies, and other fields for youth development.
19. He focused particularly on supporting children of deceased police officers, ensuring they had access to education and opportunities.
20. Arase retired from the Nigeria Police Force on June 21, 2016, but remained active in public service until his passing, leaving a legacy of reforms, public service, youth empowerment, and dedication to improving policing in Nigeria.
Source: Punch Newspaper
