The Sokoto State Government has shut down 24 illegal private schools operating in the state, disclosing that 100 others which had already been identified would soon be shut.

Speaking to newsmen in Sokoto Saturday , the Chairman, State Committee on Standardisation of Private Schools, Alhaji Yusuf Maiakwai, said the primary schools were closed for operating illegally without licence .

According to him, the schools were closed for their failure to adhere to minimum standards in accordance with the National Policy on Education.

He explained that the illegal private schools had been operating with inadequate teachers and in dilapidated buildings.

Maikwai decried the activities of such schools, saying pupils were being taught in atmosphere that was not conducive for learning.

The chairman stated that the illegal schools had been conducting their activities without due approval from the state's Ministry of Education.

"As you are aware, only the Commissioner of Education has the power to give approval for the operation of private schools in the state," he said.

"In fact, the state government is aware of the efforts being made by private schools in providing education to our children. But what we want is for them to adhere to the guidelines on operation of private schools as stipulated by the Ministry of Education."