The Nigeria Police Force has released the final burial plans for former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who died on August 31 at 69.
According to the programme released by Force PRO, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the ceremonies will begin in Abuja on September 24 with a Day of Tribute at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi. A requiem mass will follow on September 26 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama.
On September 27, a lying-in-state will be held at his Abuja residence before the body is flown to Benin. His hometown, Sabongida-Ora, will host a candlelight procession on September 29.
October 2 will feature a valedictory session by the Edo judiciary and NBA at the High Court, Benin, before a service of songs at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport Road.
The funeral mass holds October 3 at the same church, after which Arase will be laid to rest at his private residence in Benin. A reception follows at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub. A thanksgiving mass rounds off events on October 5.
Arase, Nigeria’s 18th indigenous IGP, was remembered for his leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to police reforms. He retired in June 2016 after serving as IGP from April 2015.
