President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Solomon Ehigiator Arase (CFR), the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police (IGP), who died on Sunday at the age of 69.
President Tinubu described him as a “quintessential officer, a patriot, and a reformer” whose life was devoted to the service of Nigeria.
“Solomon Arase was more than a police officer; he was a symbol of integrity, intelligence, and compassion in service,” the President said. “From his early days in the force to his tenure as Inspector-General and later as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, he gave his best to make Nigeria safer and to strengthen public trust in our security institutions.” he said.
He recalls Arase’s outstanding reforms in the police force, including the Intelligence Response Team, the Complaint Response Unit, and the Safer Highway Patrols, describing them as initiatives that “still speak of his foresight and commitment to the safety of our people.”
President Tinubu further notes Arase’s distinguished career of service at home and abroad, saying “Arase carried Nigeria’s flag with honour, whether in United Nations Peacekeeping in Namibia or in the many leadership roles he undertook here at home. Even after retirement, he never stopped serving — whether as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, in advisory roles to national and international institutions, or as a voice for human rights and good governance.”
He extends his heartfelt condolences to the Arase family, the Nigeria Police Force, and all who were touched by his life, praying that God grants them strength and comfort in this time of grief, adding that “Our nation has lost one of its finest security minds, but his legacy of service, courage, and reform will continue to inspire future generations.”
