The Senate has paid tribute to Dr Solomon Arase, a former inspector-general of police (IGP) who passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 69.
Coming under Order 42 of the Senate Standing Rules (Personal Explanation), Senator Imasuen Neda (Edo South) raised the motion, expressing sadness over the death of the 18th IGP, who was widely respected for his integrity, professionalism and dedication to service.
Born on June 21, 1956, in Edo State, Arase joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1981 and rose through the ranks with an unblemished record.
Senator Neda said Arase held several strategic positions, including commissioner of police, Akwa Ibom State Command; assistant inspector-general of police; head of the Force Intelligence Bureau and head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau.
He added that Arase was appointed IGP in April 2015 by former President Goodluck Jonathan and served until June 2016. During his tenure, he championed intelligence-led policing, deepened community engagement, introduced reforms and strengthened counter-terrorism strategies.
Following his retirement, he said Arase was appointed chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), where he upheld the principles of merit, fairness, and accountability in recruitment, promotion, and discipline within the Force.
The Senate also acknowledged his contributions as a legal practitioner, researcher, and author of scholarly works on law, security, and human rights—highlighting that he mentored a generation of police officers and scholars who continue to benefit from his leadership and wisdom.
In honour of the late police chief, the Senate resolve to: “Extend condolences to his family, the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the government and people of Edo State.
“Urge the federal government to immortalise Arase by naming a national security institution or police training facility after him, in recognition of his outstanding service and enduring legacy.
“Convey the condolences of the Senate to the bereaved family and assure them of the nation’s gratitude for his sacrifice and service.
Presiding over the session, the deputy Senate president Barau Jibrin commended the late IGP’s record of service, describing him as “a patriot, a reformer and a distinguished officer whose life epitomised duty, honour and service.”
