By Matthias Ogbagah

DELTA – The social political umbrella of the Niger Delta region people, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), was thrown into uncontrollable mourning as the former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Late IGP Solomon Arase, was laid to rest in his country home, Benin City, Edo State.

While paying a glowing tribute to the former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase, the national chairman of PANDEF, Amb. Godknows Igali described the late IGP as a “rare gem” whose humility, compassion, and service to humanity left indelible footprints.

Ambassador Godknows Igali, led PANDEF’s delegation to the two-day funeral rites to join other dignitaries and mourners in Benin City.

In a press statement signed by the PANDEF National Publicity Secretary, Chief (Sir) Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini on Friday night, the national leader of PANDEF, Ambassador Igali, visibly moved to tears, lamented Arase’s passing, noting that the late IGP was still greatly needed by society.

“Given the good qualities of IGP Solomon Arase, who was a man of humility despite his position, he was too quick to depart us. He was well-loved because he devoted his life to helping humanity. Men like him are too few,” Igali said.

He recalled Arase’s philanthropic gestures, including his annual support to orphanages, particularly during his birthdays, describing his humanitarian service as “immeasurable.

“We shall continue to miss late Solomon Arase as a big vacuum has been created due to his death, Igali added.

The marvellous level of high-ranking dignitaries who attended the event has gone to show that Arase related well with the society, his colleagues, and also the downtrodden. We strongly believe that Arase shall make heaven as his conduct truly met the reflection of the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ. May his soul rest in peace”.

Beyond his national service as IGP, the late Arase was also deeply rooted in his community, serving as the Edo State chairman of PANDEF and founding president of the Benin Consultative Forum.