26th July, 2015
Jethro Ibileke/Benin
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, on Saturday went down memory lane and recalled that his late mother objected to his decision to join the Nigerian Police Force 34 years ago.
Arase who spoke at a reception organised for him by Ora people of Owan West local government area of Edo State in appreciation of his elevation to the position of IGP, said his mother’s objection was because of the poor public perception of people on the Force as an institution.
He however said he regretted that his mother did not live long to see him rise to the peak of his career.
Expressing gratitude for the honour and for all the sacrifices the Ora Ekpen Development Association, organisers of the event, did him, Arase recalled his growing days at Holy Trinity Grammar School, Sabongida-Ora and promised to give back to the community that made him, his relations who raised and supported him.
“Sabongida Ora has made my life. In line with the time tested saying that ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’, I can only promise three things in return. Firstly, in my line of duty I shall continue to project those values that will edify this community and I will never engage in anything that will bring our communal values and the image of Sabongida Ora community into disrepute.
“Secondly, to my relations who raised me and my friends who supported me, I will not let you down. I shall continue to keep the bond and hold onto your hands and hearts as we jointly continue to walk through the journey of life.
“Thirdly, I promise to give back to Sabongida Ora and Owan land what the community has given to me,” he said.
The IGP recalled that it was in furtherance of his desire to give back to the community that he incorporated the Madam Mercy Igbe-Arase (nee Ifidon) Foundation which has been awarding scholarships to deserving Owan West and Owan East undergraduates, noting that up to 15 youths have benefited from the scholarships.
Also speaking, a maternal uncle of the IGP, Prof. Sam Ifidon, urged the people to pray for him, to tell him the truth at all times and not to seek help from him outside the rule.
IGP Arase was conferred with the chieftaincy title of ‘Ojeagbase’ of Ora Clan.