Yobe Police Detain Boy, 9, for Setting House Fire

The Nigeria Police Force, Yobe state command, has detained a nine-year-old boy following allegations that he set his family house on fire in Rugan Badali, Karasuwa Local Government Area, leading to the deaths of his two stepmothers and two younger brothers. The incident occurred after the boy was reportedly beaten by his father, Abubakar Idi, for allegedly stealing a fowl.

In an interview, the boy confessed that he was angry over the punishment and sought revenge. He claimed to have sold one of the family’s fowls and purchased matches for ₦50 to ignite the fire while his family was asleep.

Although he initially called for help when the fire started, he did not admit to his actions until three days later, after prayers. ASP Yusuf Adamu-Ali, the police public relations officer, stated that despite the boy being a minor, he would not be released, emphasizing that the case would serve as a deterrent to other children involved in unlawful acts.