Governor of Oyo State, ’Seyi Makinde, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday in Ibadan, Makinde commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as well as the Government and people of Edo State.
The governor, who is currently on leave after temporarily handing over power to his deputy, said Arase was one of the most resourceful retired police chiefs whose wealth of experience would have remained invaluable to the nation.
“I have just heard about the death of my big brother, IGP Solomon Arase (rtd). I condole with his family, the people and government of Edo State and the Inspector-General of Police on this great loss,” Makinde said.
He described the late police boss as one of the finest officers of his generation, recalling that his relationship with Arase dated back to his years in active service as IGP. Makinde noted that the Oyo State Government had benefited immensely from the late security chief’s professional counsel and expertise.
“Retired IGP Arase’s death will leave a huge vacuum in the security sector, as he was one of the finest police officers in his days of active service and one of the retired police chiefs with experience and expertise that could have been useful to Nigeria in years to come,” the governor added.
While praying for the repose of Arase’s soul, Makinde asked God to grant the family and associates of the deceased the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
