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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Nigeria Police Force has formally released the funeral arrangements for former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 69.
Arase, who died after a brief illness in Abuja, was the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police. He is being remembered by the Force as “a dedicated officer whose leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to police reforms left lasting imprints on the institution and the nation.”
According to the programme signed by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the burial rites will commence in Abuja on September 24 with a Day of Tribute at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi.
A requiem mass is scheduled for September 26 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, followed by a lying-in-state on September 27 at his Abuja residence. His remains will then be conveyed to Benin City, Edo State.
In his hometown, Sabongida Ora, a candlelight procession will be held on September 29.
On October 2, the Edo State judiciary and the Nigerian Bar Association will host a valedictory session in his honour at the Edo State High Court, Benin. That same day, a service of songs will take place at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin, alongside a family lying-in-state.
The funeral mass will be held on October 3 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, after which Arase will be laid to rest at his private residence in Benin City. A reception will follow at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub. The final event, a thanksgiving mass, is scheduled for October 5.
Arase, who was conferred with national honours including CFR, was also a PhD holder. He was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 and retired in June 2016 after a distinguished career in service to the nation.