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'.

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.