Our reporter
Benin City stood still on Saturday as the body of former Inspector General of Police, Dr Solomon Arase, was flown into the ancient city, drawing an emotional gathering of dignitaries, security officials, and grieving family members.,
The Nigerian Air Force aircraft, NAF 031, conveying the late police chief touched down at Benin Airport at exactly 1:25 p.m., according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). Waiting to receive his remains were senior police chiefs, including the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Sulaiman Dogo, and the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika.
A delegation from the Edo State Government, led by Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gani Audu, joined the widow and relatives of the deceased to witness the solemn reception. In a symbolic honour, the Edo State Police Command staged a brief ceremonial parade before the casket was moved to Ebony Mortuary in Benin.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, Audu described Arase as “one of the finest police officers Nigeria ever produced,” lamenting that his death was a painful blow to both the Force and the nation. He praised Arase’s integrity, professionalism, and passion for service, noting that “he listened to everyone, to every complaint, and tried to solve problems before him. He was a gentleman, a lawyer, and above all, a man passionate about helping others.”
Audu further disclosed that the Edo State Government was considering steps to immortalise Arase, assuring the family of the state’s support. “We will do our best to work with the family to see how he can be immortalised. Edo people loved him and will remember him for his dedication and selfless service,” he said.
Dr Solomon Ehigiator Arase, born on 21 June 1956 in Edo State, served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector General of Police between 2015 and 2016. Until his death on 31 August in Abuja at the age of 69, he chaired the Police Service Commission. Widely respected for championing intelligence-driven policing and reforms, he was regarded as a transformative figure in law enforcement.
Governor Okpebholo, in his condolence, described him as a team player and an outstanding son of Edo. *“It is very painful to the government and people of Edo State, but we are consoled with the good life he lived,”* the governor said, praying for God’s comfort for the bereaved family.
The late police chief will be laid to rest at his Benin City residence on 3 October.
Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission has renamed its Chairman’s Conference Hall in honour of its late Chairman and former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase.
The commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, announced the development in a statement on Thursday, noting that the sixth-floor facility at the PSC headquarters will now be known as Solomon Arase Hall.
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