Amapere Controversy Boils Over: Council Condemns ‘Mendacious’ Claims, Defends Road Project Rollout

The executive Chairman of Ese-Odo Local Government Area, High Chief (Hon) Caleb Ebimobowei Molos, has rejected claims by the Youths of Amapere Community, that the ongoing road widening and grading in the town is ineffective, describing their assertions as inaccurate and misleading.

In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Mr. Denis Pounah, the council clarified that the road project in Amapere, is part of a broader infrastructure drive initiated by the current administration across the local government.

The statement stressed that, the initiative began with a formal flag-off in Igbobini, carried out by the Vice Chairman, Hon. (Mrs) Beauty Fayowole Modimu-Ogbaro, on behalf of the chairman.

Since then, the exercise has extended to Sabomi and several other communities in Apoi Land, with work continuing through March.

Addressing the situation in Amapere specifically, the council noted that its Works Department, under the supervision of Engr. Akponamini Pughikumo, undertook grading of key roads in the community on March 30, 2026. Areas covered include the Basic Health Centre Road and the route leading to the residence of the late Dr. Jonnes Wonni.

The council added that the decision to include the road to Dr. Wonni’s residence was deliberate, in recognition of his contributions to the area.

Reacting to images circulated by the youth group, the statement pointed out that “the pictures used by Youths of Amapere Community to discredit the project were taken by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman,” suggesting that they were taken out of context.

It also highlighted that some members of the community, including Monday Akerele and Ufewei Ukpas, were present during the grading activities, reinforcing the council’s claim that work was indeed ongoing.

While cautioning against attempts to undermine its projects, the local government maintained its commitment to delivering infrastructure improvements across the area.

The statement reaffirmed this position, highlighting that “the Molos-led administration will not be deterred from its infrastructure development goals.”