By Newscount
Former Inspector-General of Police Solomon Ehigiator Arase has reportedly passed away at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja. Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Police Force, serving as the 18th Inspector-General of Police from April 2015 to June 2016.
During his tenure, Arase implemented significant reforms, including the ban on police roadblocks, which were often used for extortion. He also established forensic and cybercrime units to modernize investigations. His commitment to police accountability and human rights earned him recognition, including the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2022.
Before becoming IGP, Arase headed the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau and served as Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State. He also participated in a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Namibia and was a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy.
After retiring from the police force in 2016, Arase continued to serve the nation, most notably as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a position he assumed in January 2023 under President Muhammadu Buhari. He was removed from the role in June 2024 by President Bola Tinubu.
