The Publisher of CrimeNews newspapers, Mr. Ohi Agbengbe has expressed confidence in the appointment of ex-police boss Dr. Solomon Arase as the chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC).
Agbengbe said the leadership of Arase will inject verve and speed in the workings of the commission considering the pedigree of the former Inspector General of Police.
In a statement by the CrimeNews publisher, Agbengbe said Arase remains one of Nigeria’s finest and most cerebral former IGPs. “I heartily congratulate you, Dr. Solomon Arase, on your well-deserved appointment as the chairman of the Police Service Commission.”
He said: “Having built an illustrious career as one of Nigeria’s finest and most cerebral police officers, rising to the position of Inspector General of Police, you have continued to distinguish yourself, contributing effectively to improving the security of lives and property across the country.
“An illustrious Edo son, Arase’s impressive credentials and experience have put our nation and Edo State on the global stage for good.
“He will serve as a motivation for youths, who seek role models in the service of the country.”
Agbengbe said he is confident Arase would bring his long years of experience in the security sector to bear in his new assignment, and facilitate the restructuring and reformation of the country’s security architecture towards curbing security challenges bedeviling the country.
It will be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari recently appointed Arase the Chairman of the PSC, which was subject to the confirmation of the senate.
In a letter at plenary recently, Senate President Ahmad Lawan based his request on Sections 153 (1) and 154 (1) of the constitution as amended.
Arase succeed Musiliu Smith, also a former IGP, who resigned under controversial circumstances last year.
Clara Ogunbiyi, a retired judge, stepped into the office in acting capacity after the resignation of Smith.
Arase was appointed IGP in 2015 by former President Goodluck Jonathan who sacked Suleiman Abba over alleged disloyalty.
Before his appointment as IGP, Arase was head of the topmost intelligence gathering unit of the Nigerian police, the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau.
Born on June 21, 1956 in Owan West Local Government, Edo State, he attended Ahmadu Bello University for his undergraduate studies and graduated with political science degree in 1980.
He was recruited into the Nigerian Police a year after on December 1, 1981.
He also obtained another bachelor’s degree in Law from University of Benin as well as Masters from University of Lagos.
While in Police service, Arase served in various capacities including being Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State as well as serving intelligence gathering unit as Assistant Inspector General.
He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy and had served in Namibia during the United Nations peacekeeping operation.
