Former IGP Solomon Arase Laid to Rest in Benin City
Former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, has been laid to rest in Benin City, Edo State, following a funeral mass held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church.
The service drew family members, close associates, and dignitaries from across the country, all gathered to pay their final respects to the late police chief.
In his homily, Reverend Father Andrew Obiyan urged attendees to reflect on the fleeting nature of earthly titles and achievements, emphasizing the importance of living lives rooted in spiritual devotion. He described Arase as a man who both loved and feared God, highlighting his exemplary service to the nation despite the dangers of the profession.
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, paid tribute to Arase as a patriot who embodied humility, professionalism, and compassion. “Moments like this remind us that one day we will lie down like this. We should be humble to serve our state and country to the best of our ability,” he stated.
Among those in attendance were Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa (representing Governor Monday Okpebholo), representatives of the Oba of Benin, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Senator Neda Imasuen, FRSC Zone 5 Commander Stella Orakwe, and Secretary to the Police Service Commission Onyeabuchi Nnamani.
Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police from 2015 to 2016, was remembered as a distinguished officer whose career was defined by integrity, dedication, and service to humanity.
