The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, CRAN, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, PSC, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, whom the association describes as an ally of journalists.
In a condolence message signed by President Olalekan Olabulo, the association described Dr. Arase as a fine officer, a visionary reformer, and above all, a mentor and friend to journalists, particularly those covering the crime and security beat.
According to CRAN, its long-standing relationship with Arase dates back to his tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Yaba.
“Even after rising to the peak of his career as IGP and later PSC Chairman, he never distanced himself from us. He either attended our annual lectures and awards in person or ensured capable representation. His humility, respect, and consistency endeared him to us,” the statement read.
The association noted that Arase valued the role of the media in promoting accountability and nation-building, while encouraging reporters to maintain professionalism in their work.
“His death is a rude shock. Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished policing minds, and CRAN has lost a true ally,” the statement added.
CRAN commiserated with his family, the Nigeria Police Force, the PSC, and the nation at large, praying for God’s comfort and the repose of his soul.
DIG Alabi mourns Solomon Ehigiator Arase
Relatedly, the retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG Abiodun Sylvester Alabi has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former IGP Arase.
DIG Alabi described the late Arase as “a good man, a true patriot, and a mentor,” noting that his death is a huge loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large.
“IGP Arase was not just a towering figure in the history of the Nigeria Police Force; he was a good man, a true patriot, and a mentor to many of us who had the honour of serving under and alongside him,” according to his statement.
DIG Alabi praised the late IGP’s leadership style, describing him as a visionary who brought professionalism, integrity, and reformist zeal to the Nigeria Police Force. He noted that Arase’s contributions to community policing and institutional reform remain benchmarks in modern Nigerian policing.
“Even in retirement, his continued service as Chairman of the Police Service Commission demonstrated his unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more effective police institution,” Alabi said.
He extended condolences to the Arase family, the Nigeria Police Force, and all Nigerians, praying for the peaceful repose of the former IGP’s soul.
“May his legacy continue to inspire generations of officers to come,” the statement concluded.
