The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has paid tribute to the late former IGP Solomon Arase.
Disu said that speaking about IGP Arase was, for him, not merely an official responsibility but an emotional privilege, adding that he had the opportunity to know him closely, to learn from him, to engage with him and, above all, to experience firsthand the warmth, wisdom and humanity that defined the man behind the rank.
Disu described Arase as an exceptional police officer who was cerebral, intellectually curious and deeply committed to professionalism.
“Yet, what made him particularly remarkable was that his brilliance was never detached from humanity,” he said.
According to him, Arase understood that policing is ultimately about people, protecting their lives, respecting their dignity, and building their confidence in the police.
The IGP continued: “He was also a man who believed strongly in the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force to evolve. His contributions to policing, police reform, professional development and institutional strengthening remain part of the enduring legacy he left behind.
“But beyond the accomplishments recorded in official documents, there was Solomon Arase the man — approachable, thoughtful, generous with his knowledge and genuinely interested in the well-being and advancement of others.
“Those of us who had the privilege of sharing moments with him will remember not only the IGP, but the mentor, the counsellor, the gentleman and the friend.
“His passing last year was a profound loss to the Nigeria Police Force and to our nation. For those of us who knew him personally, it was also the painful loss of someone whose presence enriched our lives.”
Solomon Arase: IGP Disu pays tribute to late ex-Inspector-General of Police