Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has been laid to rest in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Arase was interred in a private ceremony attended by his family members and close associates after a funeral mass held at St. Paul Catholic Church.
In his homily, Reverend Father Andrew Obiyan urged attendees to live in ways that prepare them for eternal life. He lamented that many people pursue worldly recognition but neglect their relationship with God.
“We strive for so many titles, but at death, those titles mean nothing to God. The only title that matters is the grace of salvation,” he said.
Father Obiyan praised Arase for his devotion to God and dedication to service, noting that policing is a profession filled with risks but that the late IGP remained exemplary and diligent.
“We have the assurance that Arase will reap the fruit of baptism in the presence of the eternal King. He feared and loved God. We give glory to God that he reached the peak of his career,” the priest added.
Governor of Bayelsa State, Duoye Diri, also paid tribute, describing Arase as a man of humility and service.
“Moments like this remind us that one day we will lie down as he does today. We must be humble and serve our state and nation to the best of our ability. His life is a testament of professionalism, humility, and love,” Diri said.
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo (represented by his Deputy, Dennis Idahosa); Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II (represented by Chief Oseni Elamah and Chief Uso Osaretin); former Anambra Governor Peter Obi; FRSC Zone 5 Commander, Stella Orakwe; Secretary to the Police Service Commission, Onyeabuchi Nnamani; current IGP Kayode Egbetokun; Senator Neda Imasuen, among others.
