Police Announce Burial Rites For Late Ex-IG Arase
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the burial arrangements for former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 69.
Arase, the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police, was described as a dedicated officer remembered for his leadership, philanthropy, and reforms in the Force.
According to the programme released on Wednesday by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the rites will begin in Abuja on September 24 with a Day of Tribute at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi.
A requiem mass will hold on September 26 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, followed by a lying-in-state on September 27 at his Abuja residence before the body is moved to Benin City, Edo State.
In his hometown, Sabongida Ora, a candlelight procession is scheduled for September 29. On October 2, the Edo State judiciary and the Nigerian Bar Association will hold a valedictory session at the Edo State High Court, Benin.
The same day, a service of songs will take place at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin, followed by a family lying-in-state.
The funeral mass will hold on October 3 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, with interment at his private residence in Benin City. A reception will follow at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, while a thanksgiving mass will round off the events on October 5.
Arase, who held the national honour of CFR and a PhD, was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 and retired in June 2016.
He died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
