Benin City was agog on Friday as family, friends and dignitaries gathered to pay their final respects to former Inspector-General of Police and ex-Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr Solomon Arase, who was laid to rest amid glowing tributes.
Delivering a moving eulogy, Senator Neda Imasuen hailed Arase as a man who “came, saw and achieved everything that ought to be achieved,” noting that his 69 years were marked by uncommon dedication, faith and service to humanity.
Imasuen recalled how Arase transformed the Police Service Commission, using personal influence and resources to deliver projects of national importance. “He was a perfect gentleman, a man who loved God and served Him honestly,” the senator said, adding that Arase was equally a devoted family man who gave his all to his wife and children.
In his homily, Reverend Father Andrew Obiyan urged mourners to reflect on eternity rather than chase worldly titles. “People want to go everywhere on earth but refuse to go to the House of God,” he said. “At death, titles mean nothing to God. Late Arase feared and loved God, and we are assured he will reap the fruit of baptism in the presence of the eternal King.”
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, also paid tribute, describing Arase’s life as a call to service and humility. “Moments like this remind us that one day we too will lie like this. From his professionalism to his humility and love for people, Arase left behind a good testament,” he said.
The funeral drew an impressive roll call of national leaders, including Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by his Deputy Dennis Idahosa; the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Ewuare II, represented by Chief Oseni Elamah and Chief Uso Osaretin; former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi; Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; FRSC Zone 5 Commander Stella Orakwe; and Secretary to the Police Service Commission Onyeabuchi Nnamani.
Dr Solomon Arase, Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, rose through the ranks to the apex of the Force and was remembered not only for his policing reforms but also for his humility, compassion and unwavering faith.
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