Former IGP Solomon Arase Honoured as Humble and Distinguished Servant

Bayelsa State Governor and South South Governors Forum Chairman, Senator Douye Diri, has described the late retired Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, as a humble, compassionate, and hardworking officer who left a lasting legacy of service to Nigeria.

Governor Diri made the remarks on Friday during the funeral mass held in honour of Arase at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Benin City, Edo State’s capital. The ceremony attracted notable dignitaries, including Edo State representatives, top police officials, and senior military officers.

Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector General of Police from 2015 to 2016 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, passed away in August 2025 at age 69. Governor Diri praised the former police chief for rising through the ranks and dedicating his career to the nation with humility and love for humanity.

“We have lost a great officer, a man whose service could have extended far beyond retirement for the benefit of Edo State, the South South region, and Nigeria as a whole,” Diri said. “Moments like these remind us that no matter our status, we all ultimately rest in one place. Let us be humbled and inspired to serve our country faithfully.”

Diri highlighted Arase’s exemplary character, emphasizing the late IGP’s commitment to professionalism and compassionate policing. “He was a brother, father, and friend who spread love everywhere he went and left an indelible mark on society through his dedication and reforms,” the governor noted.

Son of the deceased, Victor Arase, expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa and Edo state governments and all mourners for their support during the family’s grief.

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The funeral gathering included Edo State’s Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Edo State House of Assembly Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, Inspector General of Police Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Army Staff Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede (represented by Maj-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe), Commissioners of Police, Deputy Inspectors-General, Assistant Inspectors-General, senior police officers, and other government officials.

Recognized for numerous reforms, Arase introduced the Police Complaints Response Unit, Intelligence Response Team, and Safer Highway Patrols, aimed at improving professionalism, accountability, and public trust in policing. After retirement, he continued public service as Chairman of the Police Service Commission until June 2024.

His legacy as a humble servant leader and visionary reformer remains deeply respected within Nigeria’s security community and beyond, inspiring generations to uphold values of integrity and service to the nation.

The solemn funeral mass and burial proceedings reflected the deep loss felt across Nigeria’s policing and governance institutions, honoring a distinguished officer whose life was defined by duty, compassion, and excellence.