Former Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase Dies in Abuja Hospital at Age 69
Abuja, Nigeria – August 31, 2025
Solomon Ehigiator Arase, Nigeria’s 18th Inspector General of Police and former Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), has passed away at the age of 69 after a brief illness. Arase died in the early hours of Sunday at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja, according to family sources and confirmed by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). His death marks the loss of a distinguished law enforcement leader whose career spanned over four decades, including key roles in intelligence and peacekeeping. As tributes pour in from colleagues and political figures, the NPF has pledged a formal statement, while Arase’s family requests prayers and understanding during this difficult time. The news has cast a somber shadow over the police community, with many hailing his reformist legacy amid ongoing national security challenges.
Details of Arase’s Passing and Immediate Reactions
Arase, who had been receiving treatment at Cedarcrest Hospital, succumbed to his illness around 9:00 a.m. local time on August 31, 2025. A family source confirmed the development to Channels Television, noting the brevity of his ailment. The NPF’s Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner Olumuyiwa Adejobi, verified the news in a brief statement, assuring that an official announcement would follow from police headquarters in Abuja. As of press time, Arase’s family had issued a condolence request via his son, Solomon Arase Jr., emphasizing the need for privacy as funeral arrangements are made.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase was a highly educated officer, holding degrees in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University (1980), Law from the University of Benin, and a Master’s in Corporate Management and Finance Law from the University of Lagos. He also earned a Ph.D. in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. Joining the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, Arase rose through the ranks with a focus on intelligence and administration. He was appointed IGP in April 2015 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan, succeeding Suleiman Abba, and served until his retirement on June 21, 2016, upon reaching the mandatory age limit.
Post-retirement, Arase remained influential, appointed PSC Chairman in January 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari—a role he held until his removal in June 2024 by President Bola Tinubu. He was a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and a member of international bodies like the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Arase also participated in a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Namibia, showcasing his global perspective on security.
His tenure as IGP was marked by initiatives like the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) for addressing misconduct, and the Safer Highway Patrols, aimed at improving traveler safety. He founded the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which provided scholarships to 29 indigent students in 2025, including children of deceased police officers. Arase received the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2022 from Buhari.
Quotes from Police Officials, Family, and Colleagues
The NPF’s statement via Adejobi read: “The Nigeria Police Force is deeply saddened by the passing of the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, IGP Solomon Ehigiator Arase (Rtd.), who served the nation with pride and honour… His memory will remain etched in the heart of the Force and the country he so faithfully served.”
Arase’s son, Solomon Arase Jr., issued a family statement: “He passed on at about 9 a.m. on Sunday 31st August, 2025, at the Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was aged 69… The family seeks the understanding and prayers of friends, associates and well-wishers at this difficult moment.”
Current IGP Kayode Egbetokun, on a condolence visit, described Arase as “a man of service whose memory will remain etched in the heart of the Force… We extend heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and former colleagues.”
Former IGP Usman Alkali Baba paid tribute: “Arase was a reform-driven leader who prioritized intelligence-led policing and welfare. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria.”
Background: Arase’s Illustrious Career and Legacy
Arase’s journey began with his Political Science degree from Ahmadu Bello University, followed by enlistment in the NPF. He held pivotal roles, including Principal Staff Officer to former IGPs, Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, and Assistant Inspector-General in charge of intelligence. As head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (CIIB), he strengthened the force’s apex intelligence arm.
Appointed IGP amid national security challenges, Arase focused on professionalism, introducing the IRT for high-profile cases and the CRU to combat misconduct. His international experience in Namibia under the UN honed his skills, making him a Fellow of the NDA. Post-retirement, as PSC Chairman, he oversaw police promotions and welfare, advocating for reforms until his 2024 removal.
Arase’s SEAF reflected his commitment to education, awarding scholarships in Medicine, Engineering, and Political Science. Honored with the CFR in 2022, he was remembered for integrity and social justice. His death comes amid ongoing NPF reforms under IGP Egbetokun, leaving a void in experienced leadership.
Potential Impacts and Next Steps
Arase’s passing may prompt reflections on police welfare and reforms, potentially accelerating initiatives he championed. The NPF could honor him with a state funeral or memorial, while SEAF continues his scholarship legacy.
Next steps include the family’s announcement of burial details, expected soon. The NPF will issue a full tribute, and political figures may eulogize him in Parliament. Colleagues plan tributes at police events.
In conclusion, Solomon Arase’s death at 69 after a brief illness robs Nigeria of a reformist police icon whose intelligence and dedication shaped national security. The key takeaway? Leaders like Arase remind us that true service endures beyond tenure—his legacy of integrity and welfare will inspire the force for generations.