Final journey of the former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the age of 69, will begin on September 24, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has revealed.
Arase, the 18th indigenous IGP, who was celebrated for his leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to police reforms, died at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness.
According to the official burial programme signed and released by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on Wednesday, the rites will commence in Abuja on September 24 with a Day of Tribute at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi.
A requiem mass follows on September 26 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, while a lying-in-state will be held on September 27 at his Abuja residence before the body departs for 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, followed by a family lying-in-state.
The funeral mass will be conducted on October 3 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, after which interment will take place at his private residence in Benin City. A reception is planned at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub. A thanksgiving mass will be held on October 5 to conclude the ceremonies.
Arase, who held the national honour of CFR and a PhD in law, was appointed Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 and retired in June 2016.