If it’s voluntarily, why is northern Nigeria own different ?

Yes, voluntary fasting can be observed at any time, but the obligatory fasts of Ramadan must be observed strictly within that month.

I will again clarify (as I have done so in my previous comment)

There are two types of fasting:

• Obligatory (farz) – This must be observed in the specific month of Ramadan and cannot be done outside of it.

• Voluntary (nafl) – This can be observed on any day of the year except for certain restricted days.

Today, they arrested 20 people in one of the sharia states in Nigeria for eating publicly during fasting periods. They call their security “hisbah”.

This doesn’t happen here. Although eating in public during Ramadan is frowned upon and generally discouraged, one can eat in the privacy of their home or abode. The sanctity of the month discourages public eating.

There are valid reasons for not fasting, such as health conditions, and it is permissible not to fast in such cases. However, out of courtesy and respect for those who are fasting, one should avoid eating openly in public.

The sharia states even had to close schools mixed with Christians for 5 weeks till Ramadan is over. It is not like the schools are on holidays.

Again, this is not the case here.

While school timings may be adjusted for convenience, there are no holidays. In fact, my children are having their annual exams this month, and one of them is also sitting for board exams.