NPF Bids Farewell to Late IGP Solomon Arase: A Legacy of Discipline, Service, and Reform
The Nigeria Police Force has paid its last respects to the late former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, with a solemn farewell parade described as both historic and deeply emotional.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) hailed Arase as one of the finest officers ever to serve in the Nigeria Police, noting that his legacy of discipline, professionalism, and reform will endure for generations.
“He was a disciplinarian and a visionary leader. He came with a purpose to reform the Nigeria Police, and he did. His legacy will always be remembered in the Force and in the nation at large,” the IGP said.
Former IGP Solomon Arase
Mrs. Ogah, spokesperson of the Department of State Services (DSS), described Arase as “a true Nigerian to the heart”, recalling his habit of receiving all calls and returning every missed one, a symbol of his humility and commitment to duty.
The farewell parade, mounted as the last guard of honour in his name, was not just a ceremonial ritual but a solemn duty and a final salute to a man who devoted his entire life to public service.
A Distinguished Career
Enrolled into the Nigeria Police in 1981, Solomon Arase served in several departments and commands, leaving an indelible mark at every stage of his career. Among his remarkable records:
- Served as Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and District Commander.
- Participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
- Served in the Bank and Corporate Fraud Unit of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon.
- Personal Staff Officer (PSO) to three successive Inspectors General of Police — an unmatched record.
- Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of CID, Lagos.
- Commissioner of Police (CP), ICT Department at Force Headquarters, Lagos.
- Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom and Delta States.
- Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Intelligence.
- Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Force CID.
- Appointed Police service Commission
His career culminated in April 2015 when he was appointed as the 18th indigenous Inspector General of Police — a crowning recognition of his dedication, courage, and excellent service.
Enduring Legacy
Beyond the ranks and titles, the late IGP Arase was remembered as a reformer, a man of courage, and a true patriot. His colleagues, subordinates, and the entire Force bid him farewell with deep respect, acknowledging that his impact will remain woven into the history of the Nigeria Police Force.
The solemn farewell parade was both a celebration of a life of service and a reminder of the values of integrity, discipline, and dedication that Solomon Arase embodied throughout his distinguished career.
