The remains of former Inspector General of Police Dr. Solomon Arase arrived in Benin City, Edo State, to an emotional reception from senior security officials, government representatives, and family members. A Nigerian Air Force flight, NAF 031, carrying the body landed at Benin Airport at 1:25 p.m. on Saturday. Senior police officers—including Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Sulaiman Dogo, and Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika—received the body, accompanied by a state government delegation led by Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Gani Audu, as well as the widow and other relatives of the late police chief.
A short parade was held by the police command in honor of the IGP before the body was taken to Ebony Mortuary in Benin. Alhaji Audu described Dr. Arase as a distinguished police officer whose death represents a significant loss to the nation and to Edo State. He praised the former IGP’s leadership style, calling him a team player and compassionate leader who listened to everyone and sought to solve problems. Audu conveyed the state government’s condolences to the family and hinted at plans to immortalize Dr. Arase, stating that the government will work with the family to explore ways to honor his memory.
Dr. Arase served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector General of Police from 2015 to 2016 and was the immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission. Born on 21 June 1956, he died on 31 August in Abuja at the age of 69 after an undisclosed illness. He will be buried on 3 October at his residence in Benin City. Widely respected for his reformist approach and emphasis on intelligence‑led policing, his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from various quarters, acknowledging his contributions to the Nigeria Police Force and the country at large. As the nation prepares to bid farewell to Dr. Arase, his legacy is expected to continue inspiring future generations of police officers and leaders.
Comments are closed for this story.