Former IGP Solomon Arase Dies In Abuja Hospital

According to a report by Supreme news, Arase passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja.

As of press time, neither his family nor the Nigeria Police Force had released an official statement confirming the cause of death.

Arase, who was Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, served in the position from April 2015 until June 2016, when he retired upon reaching the mandatory age of 60

Before becoming IGP, he headed the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, regarded as the intelligence arm of the police force.

His leadership in intelligence and investigation placed him at the centre of several high-profile operations.

Born on June 21, 1956 in Owan West local government area of Edo State, Arase studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, graduating in 1980, before joining the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981.

He later obtained a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos.

His academic background contributed significantly to his policing approach.

Throughout his career, Arase served in several key positions, including Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State and Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of intelligence.

He also had international exposure, serving in Namibia as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission.

In addition, he was a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he contributed to the development of policing strategies.

On retirement, Arase was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission, PSC, in January 2023 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari.

He held the position until June 2024 when President Bola Tinubu removed him from office.

During his tenure as PSC Chairman, he oversaw recruitment processes and disciplinary actions within the Nigeria Police Force.

His removal was followed by public debates over police reforms.

Reacting to the news of his death, a senior police officer in Abuja, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “Dr Arase was a fine officer who gave his best to the Nigeria Police Force. His contributions, especially in intelligence, will not be forgotten.”

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days, while tributes from government officials and colleagues are anticipated.