Breaking: Former Police IG, Solomon Arase is Dead

The news of his death has spread rapidly across mainstream and social media, with colleagues, political leaders,
and citizens expressing grief and paying tribute to his service. In this article, we provide a comprehensive look
at Solomon Arase’s life, his career, his legacy, and the reactions pouring in from across the nation.

Who Was Solomon Arase?

Solomon Ehigiator Arase was born on 21 June 1956 in Edo State, Nigeria. He rose through the ranks of the
Nigerian Police Force, serving in various capacities before being appointed as the 18th Inspector General of Police
in April 2015 by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Arase was widely regarded as a gentleman officer and an intellectual, blending law enforcement experience with
academic excellence. He was not only a top cop but also a lawyer and a criminologist, having studied law at
Ambrose Alli University, criminology at the University of Lagos, and strategic studies abroad.

• Inspector General of Police (2015–2016): Arase took over from Suleiman Abba in April 2015 and
  served until June 2016 when he retired after reaching the statutory retirement age.
• Reforms: He was credited with introducing modern policing methods, improving intelligence-gathering,
  and advocating for community policing in Nigeria.
• Human Rights Advocacy: He championed the protection of human rights within policing operations,
  encouraging professionalism and ethical standards.
• Academic Contributions: Arase authored books and papers on law enforcement, national security,
  and police reforms, making him a respected voice in Nigeria’s security sector.

Cause of Death

As at the time of this report, the specific cause of Solomon Arase’s death has not been officially
confirmed. Family sources and close associates have urged the public to respect their privacy while they
mourn their loss. Updates on burial arrangements and official statements are expected in the coming days.

Nevertheless, his passing has left a huge vacuum in Nigeria’s security community, where he was still active
in offering advice and consultations after retirement.

“Nigeria has lost a patriotic leader who dedicated his life to serving his country.
Solomon Arase was a reformer and a man of integrity,” – A statement from a former colleague.

Reactions have also come from international organizations that worked with Arase during his tenure,
highlighting his collaborative efforts in tackling transnational crimes.

Solomon Arase’s Contributions to Nigerian Policing

One of Arase’s most enduring legacies is his commitment to community policing. He believed that
the relationship between citizens and law enforcement was key to reducing crime. Under his watch,
pilot schemes of community policing were implemented, laying the foundation for future reforms.

He also prioritized intelligence-driven policing, encouraging officers to embrace data, research,
and technology in crime prevention and investigations.

• Integrity: His reputation as a disciplined and incorruptible officer remains a benchmark for younger policemen.
• Intellectualism: His scholarly approach to policing made him stand out as more than just a career officer.
• Humanitarian Values: He was passionate about justice, fairness, and accountability in law enforcement.