An aide to Tinubu has defended his response to Cardinal Onaiyekan, stating it was aimed at offering a different interpretation rather than disrespecting the church or the cardinal's standing.

Cardinal Onaiyekan's stance on speaking truth to power has garnered significant support on social media, reflecting a rich history of interactions between religious and political figures.

A conflict has erupted between Minister Nyesom Wike and Northern youths regarding Cardinal John Onaiyekan's recent comments on hardship, with the Middle Belt Forum backing Onaiyekan and urging President Tinubu to address public concerns. Peter Obi has also defended Cardinal Onaiyekan, accusing the Presidency of attacking truth and highlighting that other religious organizations share similar concerns about national issues.

Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has declined to respond to criticisms from the Presidency, stating that Catholic Bishops have already delivered their message and are now focused on whether it will lead to better governance.

Daniel Bwala, an aide to President Tinubu, faulted Cardinal Onaiyekan's remarks on Nigeria's economy and insecurity, stating that the cleric spoke only for Catholics, not all Christians.

Cardinal John Onaiyekan has publicly stated that at 82 years old, he cannot be embarrassed or intimidated, directly rebutting criticism from the presidency and affirming his lack of fear.

Former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Olabode George, has urged John Cardinal Onaiyekan to disregard comments made by Wike, praising the Cardinal as the 'Desmond Tutu of Nigeria'.

The Middle Belt Forum has expressed support for Cardinal Onaiyekan and Catholic bishops regarding their economic warnings, stating that their comments accurately reflect the daily realities faced by Nigerians. This comes amidst a broader debate following a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) concerning the role of religious leaders in economic governance.

Primate Ayodele has advised President Tinubu to 'do the right thing,' stating that Nigerians would express their feelings through the ballot box and urging the President to focus on governance rather than relying on political aides, referencing Cardinal Onaiyekan.

Cardinal John Onaiyekan stated he is '82, not afraid of anybody,' in response to the Presidency, affirming his commitment to speaking the truth rather than pleasing the government or people.

The Allied People’s Movement (APM) has criticized the Nigerian Presidency for its attack on Cardinal Onaiyekan, urging President Tinubu to address the nation’s economic and security challenges.

Nigerian politician Nyesom Wike has accused Cardinal John Onaiyekan of being partisan during the 2023 general election, stating that religious leaders should remain impartial. Wike's comments sparked debate on the role of religious figures in politics.

Atiku Abubakar has strongly rejected the presidency's defense of President Tinubu's economic reforms, calling the claims of economic recovery "mere fiction." He criticized the government's assertions amidst ongoing economic hardship and demanded an apology to Cardinal Onaiyekan.