By Omoniyi David
President Bola Tinubu has joined Nigerians to mourn the death of the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who died yesterday in Abuja at 69.
In a statement by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Arase as a “dedicated security expert” who served the police meritoriously from 1981 to 2016, leading several tactical and intelligence units, and later became Chairman of the Police Service Commission. The president noted his reforms such as the Intelligence Response Team, Complaint Response Unit, and Safer Highway Patrols.
“After retirement, he continued to serve in different roles, including Edo State Task Force Chairman, consultant to ONSA, and member of the UN Committee on Prevention of Torture,” Tinubu added, praying for the repose of his soul.
The president also mourned Bishop Francis Emmanuel Okobo, the pioneer Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, who died at 88, praising his “exemplary and impactful life.”
Current IGP Kayode Egbetokun said Arase’s passing was “a moment of collective mourning,” noting his contributions to police reform and support for students through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation. He led a delegation to condole with the family.
