The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, CRAN, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Inspector-General of Police and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, describing him as a fine officer, visionary reformer, and a steadfast ally of the media.

Speaking on behalf of the association, CRAN President Olalekan Olabulo said Dr. Arase’s passing is a monumental loss to the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the entire country.

Olabulo noted that Arase’s professionalism, humility, and consistent support for the media community earned him the admiration and respect of crime reporters nationwide.

He recalled that CRAN’s relationship with the late Arase dated back to his days as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, Lagos.

Even after rising to the pinnacle of his career as Inspector-General of Police and later as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Arase maintained strong ties with the association, regularly attending its annual lectures and awards ceremonies or sending capable representatives in his stead.

“He was not just a senior officer; he was a mentor and a friend to many of us,” Olabulo said. “Dr. Arase valued the role of the media in promoting accountability and nation-building, and he constantly encouraged us to uphold professionalism in our duties.

His death is a rude shock and a huge loss to the nation.

CRAN extended heartfelt condolences to Dr. Arase’s family, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Police Service Commission, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and comfort for those he left behind.

Dr. Solomon Arase, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, was widely regarded as one of the country’s most brilliant policing minds, with a legacy of reforms aimed at professionalism and community engagement within the force.