The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) has expressed deep shock over the death of former Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase.
In a condolence message signed by its President, Olalekan Olabulo, CRAN described the late Arase as a professional police officer, a reformer with vision, and a trusted ally of journalists, particularly within the crime reporting community.
“Dr. Arase meant so many things to many people who crossed his path while he was alive — a police officer with an uncommon touch of professionalism, a reformer with vision, and above all, a mentor and friend to journalists,” the statement read.
According to CRAN, its association shared a long and cordial relationship with the late police chief, dating back to his time as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba.
Even after attaining the rank of Inspector-General of Police and later serving as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Arase maintained close ties with CRAN. He either personally attended the association’s annual lectures and awards or ensured representation by senior officers.
“His humility, respect, and consistency endeared him to us. To CRAN, Dr. Solomon Arase will remain an unforgettable mentor who appreciated the role of the media in accountability and nation-building and encouraged us to strive for professionalism,” Olabulo said.
CRAN noted that his passing is a huge loss to Nigeria’s security sector and to the journalism community, describing it as “a rude shock.”
“We commiserate with his immediate family, the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the entire nation. We pray God to grant his soul eternal rest and comfort those he left behind,” CRAN added.
