Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described the late former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Egiator Arase, as a mentor and pillar of support, both in public service and in his personal political journey.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the Arase family residence in Benin City, the Governor said Arase’s death at 69 was a painful loss, not just to Edo State but to Nigeria as a whole.
Reflecting on their relationship, Governor Okpebholo recalled that Arase was the first elder statesman he consulted when he decided to run for governor.
His Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua in a statement on Monday quoted him to have said,
“I came to his house late at night with General Cecil Isekhaigbe. He listened to me patiently and assured me of his support. To show his commitment, he took me to meet the Oba of Benin. That encounter was a major turning point in my journey. I can never forget such a man,” he said.
The Governor described Arase’s passing as untimely, but urged his family to take solace in his impactful life. He assured them of the State Government’s support, adding that Edo would actively participate in the burial as a mark of honour.
Responding, the late IGP’s son, Junior Arase, thanked the Governor for his visit and kind words.
Also speaking, Commissioner-designate Kassim Afebua lauded Arase’s contributions to policing in Nigeria, citing his introduction of community policing and reforms that reshaped security operations nationwide.
Governor Okpebholo later joined dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, at the 10th remembrance of Mrs. Imuegbeyogho Odubu (née Osunde).
The Governor’s tribute, filled with personal memories, underscored Arase’s enduring legacy as a reformer, mentor, and dedicated public servant.