CRAN mourns Solomon Arase, calling the late IGP a visionary leader, mentor, and a strong ally of crime journalists and media professionalism

CRAN mourns Solomon Arase following the passing of the former Inspector-General of Police and Chairman of the Police Service Commission, describing him as a visionary reformer and one of the most media-friendly officers in the history of Nigerian policing.

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In a condolence message released on Monday by the President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Mr Olalekan Olabulo, the group expressed deep sorrow at the loss and celebrated Arase’s unwavering relationship with the crime and security press community.

“Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished policing minds, and CRAN has lost a true ally,” Olabulo said.

Olabulo noted that the association’s connection with Arase began long before he became IGP, dating back to his days as Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba.

“Even after rising to the peak of his career, he never distanced himself from us,” the CRAN President recalled.
“He either attended our annual lectures and awards in person or ensured capable representation.”

According to CRAN, Arase stood out for his humility, accessibility, and consistent support for journalists working on the often-dangerous crime beat.

Beyond his support for the media, Arase was celebrated as someone who valued press freedom and saw the media as a key player in law enforcement transparency and nation-building.

“He encouraged reporters to maintain professionalism in their job and saw media as a partner in policing reform,” Olabulo noted.

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CRAN extended its condolences to Arase’s family, the Nigeria Police Force, and the entire country. The association described his passing as “a rude shock” and prayed for the repose of his soul and comfort for the loved ones he left behind.