The Nigeria Police Force, Yobe State Command, has arrested a nine-year-old boy for allegedly setting his family home ablaze, resulting in the deaths of his two stepmothers and two younger brothers.

The incident occurred at Rugan Badali in Karasuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State.

According to Channels Television, the boy was arrested after allegedly admitting that he deliberately set the house on fire while his victims were asleep.

The suspect reportedly became angry after his father beat him over allegations that he had stolen a fowl.

He told Channels Television that he bought ₦50 worth of matches the following day and set the house on fire while his two stepmothers and two younger brothers were sleeping.

The boy said he shouted for help after the fire started but did not immediately disclose that he had caused the blaze.

He reportedly confessed to the act three days later after a period of prayer, following which the police arrested him and took him to Damaturu.

While parading the suspect alongside his father, Abubakar Idi, the Police Public Relations Officer in Yobe, ASP Yusuf Adamu-Ali, confirmed the arrest.

Adamu-Ali said the suspect was a minor but would not simply be allowed to go free, adding that the police action was intended to serve as a deterrent to other children who might engage in unlawful acts.

The police spokesperson also expressed concern over the incident, particularly as Yobe continues to recover from the effects of the Boko Haram insurgency.