The remains of Dr. Solomon Arase, Nigeria’s 18th Inspector General of Police, were received in Benin City on Saturday with solemnity and reverence, marking the beginning of final rites for one of the country’s most respected law enforcement figures.
Arriving aboard Nigerian Air Force flight NAF 031 at 1:25 p.m., Arase’s body was welcomed by a delegation of senior police officers and Edo State government representatives.
Among those present were Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Sulaiman Dogo; Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; and Chief of Staff to the Edo State Government, Alhaji Gani Audu, who led the state’s delegation.
The late police chief’s widow and family members stood alongside dignitaries as the Edo State Police Command mounted a brief ceremonial parade in his honor. His body was later conveyed to Ebony Mortuary in Benin City.
Speaking to journalists, Alhaji Audu described Arase as a distinguished officer whose legacy of professionalism and compassion left a lasting impact on the Nigeria Police Force and his home state.
“He was a gentleman, a lawyer, and a leader who always listened and sought solutions. His passing is a profound loss,” Audu said.
Representing Governor Monday Okpebholo, Audu conveyed the state’s condolences and hinted at plans to immortalize Arase’s contributions.
“Edo people cherished him. We will work with his family to ensure his legacy is preserved,” he added.
Born on June 21, 1956, Arase rose through the ranks to become Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police from 2015 to 2016. He was also the immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, where he championed reforms and intelligence-led policing.
Known for his strategic leadership and commitment to modernizing law enforcement, Arase was widely admired across the country. His death on August 31 in Abuja, following an undisclosed illness, shocked many who viewed him as a pillar of integrity and innovation in policing.
He will be laid to rest on October 3 at his residence in Benin City, where family, colleagues, and admirers will gather to pay their final respects.
