Former Inspector-General of Police and Ex-Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase has paid a glowing tribute to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his passing as the loss of Nigeria’s political soul and moral compass.
In a statement released following the death of the former President on July 13, 2025, in a London hospital, Dr. Arase expressed deep sorrow and described Buhari as “an iconic national phenomenon” whose legacy will shape Nigeria’s leadership trajectory for generations.
“My family and I received with rude shock and intense grief the news of the passage of our most revered former President,” Dr. Arase stated.
He hailed Buhari’s life of integrity, discipline, and courage, noting that his leadership both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President redefined public service and restored honour to national leadership.
“His nationalistic disposition, incorruptible inclination, and unmatched passion for the Nigerian Dream attracted global respect to our beloved country,” Dr. Arase stated. “His vision in leadership, courage in power, and humility in authority left him with unmatched legacies.”
Dr. Arase recalled Buhari’s austere lifestyle, deep connection to ordinary Nigerians, and his unwavering commitment to his faith, describing him as a phenomenon whose appeal transcended political generations.
On matters of security and economic policy, Dr. Arase credited the former President with confronting terrorism and banditry with decisive courage while instituting reforms that stabilized the economy and attracted local and foreign investment even amid global financial turmoil.
On a personal note, Dr. Arase expressed gratitude for Buhari’s support during his tenure as IGP.
“He retained me after inheriting me from his predecessor and ensured I completed my service honourably,” he stated. “He later hosted me to an unprecedented retirement dinner at the State House and presented me with meaningful souvenirs, a gesture that revealed him as a truly compassionate and motivational leader who appreciated loyalty and service excellence.”
As the nation mourns, Dr. Arase extended his condolences to the former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, urging her to take solace in the Qur’anic verse 2:156, “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” (To God we belong and to Him we shall return). He also prayed for the children and the entire nation grappling with the loss.
“It is my prayer that his imperfections be forgiven, that he be rewarded with Aljannatul Firdaus, and that Allah grants his family and the leadership of Nigeria the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Arase stated.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to mirror Buhari’s virtues and civic dedication: “This is the only way we can rightly honour President Buhari and guarantee that his soul will truly rest in peace.”
