Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Egiator Arase, at his residence in Benin City.
Naijaonpoint recalls that Arase recently died at the age of 69.
The IGP is being remembered not just as a respected security chief, but also as a mentor and political adviser whose influence extended far beyond policing.
During his visit, Governor Okpebholo grew emotional as he reflected on his long-standing relationship with the late Arase, recalling how the retired IGP played a key role in his journey to becoming governor.
“When I first decided to pursue the governorship of Edo State, the very first person I went to see was Arase,” he said.
“I came to his house late at night with General Cecil Isekhaigbe, and we talked. He listened to me patiently. At the end of the conversation, he told me he would support my ambition.”
The governor went further to narrate how Arase personally facilitated his first meeting with the revered Oba of Benin, an encounter he described as a turning point in his political career.
Okpebholo said, “To show his support, he said he would take me to meet the Oba of Benin the following weekend. That was the first time I met the Oba, and thanks to him. That meeting was a significant stepping stone in my success. How could I ever forget such a man?”
The Edo Governor expressed deep sorrow over Arase’s passing, describing it as a painful loss for both the state and the nation.
“It is unfortunate that he had to leave us at this early stage, but God knows best,” Okpebholo told the grieving family. “What truly matters is how we live our lives. Your husband lived well.”
He assured the family that Edo State would stand with them during the burial, adding that the government would be actively involved in the funeral arrangements as a mark of honour.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Junior Arase, the late IGP’s first son, thanked the governor for the visit and for the words of comfort he brought in their time of grief.
Also present during the condolence visit was Commissioner-designate Kassim Afebua, who described Arase as a visionary leader in policing.
Afebua noted that Arase left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security landscape by championing community policing, dismantling roadblocks across the country, and improving police-community relations in ways that transformed law enforcement.
Governor Okpebholo’s heartfelt tribute highlights the far-reaching influence of the late Solomon Arase. Beyond his celebrated policing career, Arase was a mentor, a bridge-builder, and a man whose guidance shaped the careers of many, including Edo’s current governor.
His passing, many say, represents the loss of not only a dedicated public servant but also a strong pillar of Edo politics and Nigerian security reform.
Meanwhile, the governor also attended the 10-year remembrance of the late Imuegbeyogho Odubu (née Osunde), wife of former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu, where he was joined by Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa and other prominent figures.
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