Former Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has passed away.
The immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) reportedly died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja on Sunday.
Arase, who was the 18th Inspector General of Police, previously served as the head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, the Force’s top intelligence unit, before his appointment as IGP.
Born on 21 June 1956 in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase joined the Nigeria Police Force on 1 December 1981 and retired on 21 June 2016, having reached the mandatory retirement age of 60.
A Political Science graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, he also earned a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos.
The late President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) in January 2023. He held that position until June 2024, when he was removed by President Bola Tinubu.
Confirming the passing of the former IGP, Solomon Arase, the family, in a statement signed by his son, Solomon Arase Jnr., on Sunday, said: “The Arase family of Benin City, Edo State, hereby announces the passing of Solomon Ehigiator Arase, PhD, CFR, NPM, FDC, former Inspector General of Police.
“He passed away at about 9 a.m. on Sunday, 31 August 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness. He was aged 69.
“After a distinguished career as Inspector General of Police, Dr Arase also served as Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC). He was a member of the Body of Benchers.
“The family seeks the understanding and prayers of friends, associates, and well-wishers during this difficult time, as they make the necessary arrangements for his obsequies, which will be announced in due course.”