Who Was Solomon Arase? Solomon Ehigiator Arase (21 June 1956 – 31 August 2025) was a retired Nigerian police officer, respected lawyer, and public servant. He served as the 18th Inspector-General of Police (IGP) of Nigeria and later as the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC).
He was appointed PSC Chairman in January 2023 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari. His leadership, intelligence background, and contributions to law enforcement made him a notable figure in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Sadly, Solomon Arase passed away on 31 August 2025 at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy of service, discipline, and reform in the Nigerian Police Force.
Solomon Arase Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Solomon Ehigiator Arase |
| Date of Birth | 21 June 1956 |
| Date of Passing | 31 August 2025 |
| Age | 69 years old |
| State of Origin | Edo State, Nigeria |
| Tribe | Edo (Owan West) |
| Profession | Police Officer, Lawyer, Security Expert |
| Positions Held | 18th Inspector-General of Police, Chairman PSC |
| Wife | Mrs. Arese Arase |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life and Education
Solomon Arase was born on 21 June 1956 in Owan West Local Government Area, Edo State. Proudly from Edo, his upbringing shaped his values of service and hard work.
He pursued an impressive academic journey:
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Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science – Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
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Law Degree (LL.B) – University of Benin.
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Master’s Degree in Law – University of Lagos.
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Master’s in Strategic Studies – University of Ibadan.
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Fellow of the Nigeria Defence College (fdc).
This strong educational foundation made him one of the most intellectually prepared leaders of the Nigerian Police Force.
Career in the Police Force
Arase’s career in the Nigeria Police Force was remarkable and spanned decades of active service.
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He served as the head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, one of the most critical intelligence units in the force.
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On 21 April 2015, he was appointed the 18th Inspector-General of Police after the removal of Suleiman Abba.
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His tenure as IGP emphasized intelligence-led policing, professionalism, and internal reforms.
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After retirement, he continued to contribute to security policy and legal reforms.
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In January 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Nigeria Police Service Commission (PSC), a role where he worked to improve police welfare, recruitment, and accountability.
Family and Personal Life
Solomon Arase was married to Mrs. Arese Arase. Together, they shared a family life that he kept relatively private. While details about his children remain undisclosed, he was known as a family man who valued integrity and discipline both at home and in public life.
State of Origin and Tribe
Arase hailed from Owan West, Edo State, Nigeria. He belonged to the Edo people, a proud community known for their rich cultural heritage and history.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Solomon Arase’s net worth was not publicly disclosed. His wealth came primarily from decades of service in the police force, leadership positions, and his work as a lawyer and security consultant.
Age and Passing
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Age at Passing: 69 years old
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Date of Birth: 21 June 1956
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Date of Passing: 31 August 2025
His passing marked the end of an era in Nigeria’s police service, as he was remembered as one of the most reform-minded IGPs of modern times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Solomon Arase?
He was Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police and later Chairman of the Police Service Commission.
2. When did Solomon Arase pass away?
He passed away on 31 August 2025 at the age of 69.
3. Where was Solomon Arase from?
He was from Owan West, Edo State, Nigeria.
4. Who is Solomon Arase’s wife?
He was married to Mrs. Arese Arase.
5. What tribe was Solomon Arase?
He was from the Edo tribe in Edo State.
6. What was Solomon Arase’s net worth?
His net worth was not publicly disclosed.
7. What was his educational background?
He studied Political Science at ABU Zaria, Law at the University of Benin, obtained a Master’s in Law at the University of Lagos, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies.
Conclusion
Solomon Arase’s life was a story of discipline, leadership, and national service. From his humble beginnings in Edo State to leading the entire Nigerian Police Force as IGP, and later chairing the Police Service Commission, his impact on law enforcement and governance was profound.
While he has passed on, his contributions to intelligence-led policing and police reforms remain a legacy that future generations can build upon. He will be remembered not just as a police officer, but as a reformist, intellectual, and patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.
