The inspector general of police, Olukayode Egbetokun, and some other former inspectors general paid tribute to the late Solomon Arase, a former inspector general, in Abuja on Wednesday, celebrating his life and times.

Speaking at a ‘Day of Tribute’, Mr Egbetokun said the deceased police boss was a rare blend of intellect, discipline, and humanism since he joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1981. He said the death of Arase was a loss that weighs heavily, not only on his family but on the Nigerian Police and on the nation at large.

Mr Egbetokun said the deceased was not just a police officer, but an institution in himself. According to him, from the moment he joined the Nigerian Police Force in 1981, his career became a lesson in resilience, excellence, and the dignity of duty.

“He moved through the ranks with quiet confidence, inspired not just by ambition but by a genuine desire to leave the institution better than he met it. By 2015, destiny entrusted him with the highest office in the force and was appointed the 18th indigenous IG of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Everywhere he served, he left more than just a line of resume. He left memories, he left reforms and he inspired several young officers who served under him.

“From Benin City, where he was a divisional police officer, to Namibia, where he carried the flag of Nigeria high at international peacekeeping operations under the United Nations Transit Assistance Group, he proved himself outstanding,” he said.

Sunday Ehindero, a former IGP, described Mr Arase as a loyal officer who possesses a remarkable ability to put his best knowledge to use, as well as a commitment to duty. He said Arase was the only police officer in the history of the police who had served as a principal staff officer to three successive IGPs.

According to him, Mr Arase had some reputation for excellence and care-mindedness and had impacted in the course of police investigation in the country.

“He was a great officer who cared for the poor and the needy through the establishment of Dr. Solomon Arase Foundation. He was honest, full of integrity and benevolence. We will indeed miss him,” he said.

In a related development, Mike Okiro, a former IGP, was his good colleague and friend, known for his trustworthiness.

He said Mr Arase had enjoyed the benefits and blessings that no other police officers had enjoyed by serving as PSO to three IGPs because he was good.

“We cannot say much. All I can say is that Arase lived a good life. He served his country to the best of his knowledge,” he said.

(NAN)