Solomon Arase, a name synonymous with integrity, leadership, and dedication, stands as a shining example of a police officer who transcended boundaries to become a unifying force in Nigeria. As a former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Arase’s tenure was marked by significant strides in fostering unity, enhancing security, and promoting professionalism within the Nigerian Police Force (NPF).
By Abdallah el-Kurebe
Arase’s journey to becoming a respected figure in law enforcement began with his humble origins in Edo State, Nigeria. He joined the police force with a fervent desire to serve his country and uphold the principles of justice and fairness. Through hard work, diligence, and a steadfast commitment to his duties, he rose through the ranks, earning the trust and admiration of his peers and superiors alike.
One of Arase’s defining characteristics as a leader was his ability to bridge divides and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. He understood the importance of building strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies, government institutions, and communities to tackle the complex challenges facing Nigeria. Under his leadership, the NPF strengthened its cooperation with other security agencies, leading to more effective joint operations against crime and insecurity.
Arase also prioritized the welfare and professional development of police officers under his command. He implemented various reforms aimed at enhancing training, improving working conditions, and promoting merit-based promotions within the force. By investing in the capacity-building of officers and equipping them with the necessary tools and skills, he empowered them to perform their duties with excellence and integrity.
Beyond his role within the police force, Arase actively engaged with civil society organizations, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. He recognized the importance of community engagement in preventing crime, resolving conflicts, and building trust between law enforcement agencies and the public. Through initiatives such as community policing and town hall meetings, he sought to involve citizens in shaping strategies for crime prevention and maintaining peace.
Arase’s tenure as IGP was also marked by his unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting human rights. He championed reforms aimed at promoting accountability, transparency, and respect for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their status or background. His emphasis on professional conduct and ethical behavior set a positive example for police officers across the country.
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In addition to his domestic achievements, Arase played a key role in advancing Nigeria’s cooperation with international partners in the fight against transnational crime, terrorism, and organized crime syndicates.
He recognized the interconnected nature of security threats in the global context and advocated for greater collaboration and information sharing among countries to address these challenges effectively.
As a general unifier, Solomon Arase’s legacy extends far beyond his tenure as IGP. His exemplary leadership, vision, and commitment to serving the people of Nigeria continue to inspire a new generation of police officers and leaders across the country. Through his tireless efforts to promote unity, security, and justice, he has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian Police Force and the nation as a whole.
Arase as Chairman of Police Service Commission
In 2016, Arase retired from the NPF as the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police (between April 2015 and June 2016), prior to which he had served in various capacities, including as head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, the foremost intelligence-gathering unit of the Nigerian police.
Beclouded by merit, former he President Muhammadu, on January 24, 2023, forwarded Arase’s name to the Senate, asking the upper legislative chamber to confirm him in line with sections 153 (1) and 154 (1) of the constitution as amended. On Wednesday, March 29, 2023, swore in Solomon Arase as the new chairman of the Service Commission.
One of the tasks before Arase was unifying the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission which had been at loggerheads over the years. Before Arase, the Force and the Commission were conducting recruitment into the Force at parallel fronts. But “No”, Arase would say, there must not be division between the two.
He has remained an advocate of synergy between the Commission and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), which he says must work in synergy with each other to deliver on their mandates.
“I neither work in a toxic environment nor subscribe to confrontation and belligerence as a leadership approach to getting results; for me, the ultimate is achieving our goals and delivering on our mandate and I believe there are better ways of resolving conflicts without resorting to actions that will embarrass the government and paint both institutions in bad light.
“I do not believe that the powers of the Commission should be subsumed by the NPF(of course it cannot happen under my watch), the truth however remains, we cannot succeed and deliver on our mandate as an agency if we are working at cross purposes with the agency we are over-sighting,” he said.
Today, through Arase’s efforts, the NPF and the PSC are united, and delivering service to Nigerians and the country at large.
Adeu, Arase‼!
