Late ex-IGP Arase, champion of human rights – NHRC

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Solomon Arase, describing him as a visionary leader and a lifelong advocate for human rights and police reform in Nigeria.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, commended Arase for his transformative leadership—both during and after his tenure as Nigeria’s police chief—highlighting his pivotal role in shaping a more accountable, citizen-focused, and rights-respecting police force.

“Dr. Arase was not just a professional policeman; he was a man of ideas and ideals. His passing is a huge loss to the human rights community, the Nigeria Police Force, and the nation as a whole.

He championed reforms that placed human dignity and the rule of law at the heart of policing in Nigeria,” the NHRC boss stated.

Among Arase’s most notable achievements was the establishment of the Police Complaint Response Unit (CRU), which the NHRC described as a “landmark initiative” aimed at addressing public grievances swiftly and enhancing police accountability.

Ojukwu also praised Arase’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, which emphasized investigation before arrest, in line with the constitutional presumption of innocence.

“Solo,” as he was fondly called, advocated for a policing style guided by evidence and due process—principles that are often undermined in current practices,” the NHRC noted.

The Commission added that even after retiring as IGP, Arase remained at the forefront of policing reform as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, where he continued his efforts to modernize the Nigerian police system and reinforce ethical standards.

“His legacy is not just in the policies he implemented, but in the lives he touched, the culture he tried to build, and the future he envisioned for Nigerian policing,” Ojukwu said.

“He will be remembered as a beacon of professionalism, humility, and courage.”

Dr. Ojukwu described Arase as a revered figure within the human rights community—someone whose dedication to justice, dignity, and service inspired a new generation of human rights defenders and security professionals.

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The Commission extended its condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Nigeria Police Force, while praying for strength and comfort in the wake of this profound loss.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the memories of his outstanding life and service,” he concluded.