Solomon Ehigiator Arase, a distinguished figure who served as the 18th Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and later as the immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), passed away at the age of 69. He died at approximately 9 a.m. on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja, following a brief illness. The somber announcement was made on behalf of the family by his son, Solomon Arase Jnr., who requested the understanding and prayers of friends, associates, and well-wishers during this difficult period, stating that arrangements for his obsequies would be communicated in due course.

Born on June 21, 1956, in the Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase embarked on his impactful journey in law enforcement when he enlisted in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on December 1, 1981. This followed his successful completion of a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. His pursuit of knowledge continued, leading him to earn a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos, further solidifying his academic and professional foundation. He held the esteemed titles of PhD, CFR, NPM, and FDC, and was also a member of the Body of Benchers.

Throughout his extensive career in the NPF, Arase served in various departments, showcasing his versatility and dedication. He held significant positions, including Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom state, and notably led the Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department (FCIID), which served as the Force’s top intelligence unit. His experience also encompassed roles as Principal Staff Officer to three IGPs, Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB), and Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department. His stellar career culminated in his appointment as the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police by then-President Goodluck Jonathan in April 2015. He honorably retired on June 21, 2016, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, having dedicated 35 years to the service of the nation.

During his tenure as IGP, Arase was widely celebrated for his reform-driven leadership, which brought about lasting changes to policing in Nigeria. He spearheaded several critical initiatives aimed at enhancing security and promoting accountability within the force. These reforms included the establishment of the Intelligence Response Team, the Complaint Response Unit, designed to address police misconduct effectively, and the Safer Highway Patrols initiative, which significantly improved security for road users across the nation.

Even after his retirement from the NPF, Arase remained a committed public servant, continuing to contribute to the nation in various capacities. He was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission by late President Muhammadu Buhari in January/March 2023, a position he held until June 2024 when he was removed by President Bola Tinubu. Beyond this, he served as the head of the Task Force on implementing the Edo State Anti-Community Development Association Law. His expertise was also sought in numerous consultancy roles, including with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the European Centre for Electoral Support, the Human Rights Centre at the University of Oslo, and as a member of the Committee on Prevention of Torture in Geneva, Switzerland. He remained actively involved in security reform, with a particular focus on election security and promoting police neutrality.

Arase was not only a dedicated security expert but also a passionate advocate for education, youth empowerment, and social development. Through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), he championed academic excellence, notably by awarding scholarships to high-achieving Nigerian students. These beneficiaries often included children of fallen police officers and youths from underserved communities. In 2025, the Foundation proudly awarded scholarships to 29 students across a diverse range of disciplines such as Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Criminology, Political Science, and Business Administration. SEAF described this initiative as a reflection of Arase’s core values—integrity, service, and excellence—designed not only to provide financial aid but also to nurture future leaders and contribute to a more just and equitable society. He was profoundly respected for his dedication to the welfare of police personnel.

President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of this esteemed leader, extending his heartfelt sympathies to the Nigeria Police Force, Arase's family, friends, and associates. In his condolence message, President Tinubu lauded Arase as a “highly resourceful officer” whose reforms left an indelible mark on policing in the country. He acknowledged the former IGP's unwavering dedication to enhancing national security through his impactful initiatives. The President concluded by offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the soul of this dedicated security expert, emphasizing that his vast experience and invaluable contributions would be profoundly missed by the nation.