The National Chairman of the Auke Development Association (ADA), Mr. Bernard Negedu, has strongly condemned a recent social media publication which he described as malicious and misleading. The report, authored by one Paul Edoh Jr., alleged that the Auke community rejected a borehole project facilitated by Hon. Ojotu Ojema, the Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Mr. Negedu, in a press statement, debunked the claims that the community had turned its back on Hon. Ojema’s efforts, describing the lawmaker as a man of goodwill and a progressive leader who has always prioritized the development of Auke.
“My attention was drawn to a malicious publication by one Paul Edo concerning a letter of appreciation sent to Hon. Ojotu Ojema, which also sought to draw his attention to issues with a contractor’s work. Let it be clearly stated that we are not blaming or fighting Hon. Ojema. On the contrary, he has done well for the Auke community by facilitating two boreholes and other essential projects,” Mr. Negedu said.
He emphasized that the concerns raised were directed at the contractor responsible for the implementation of the project—not at Hon. Ojema. “The intention was never to discredit or malign the Honorable. Any technical concerns regarding the borehole should be seen as a call for improvement, not a rejection of his efforts. What happened was not his fault,” he added.
In the controversial report titled “Auke Community Rejects Substandard Borehole Project by Hon. Ojotu Ojema,” the author claimed that the community had rejected the water project due to alleged substandard materials and inadequate construction.
According to the report, residents feared the structure might collapse and raised concerns about the reduced number of tanks installed. The report also criticized Hon. Ojema’s legislative absence and questioned his commitment to the constituency since his assumption of office.
However, Mr. Negedu dismissed these claims as unfair and politically motivated. “It is disheartening that a gesture of goodwill is being twisted into a narrative of failure. Constructive criticism is welcome, but falsehood and public ridicule of a serving lawmaker who has demonstrated genuine concern for our community is unacceptable,” he noted.
He urged constituents to channel grievances through appropriate and respectful platforms and cautioned against turning developmental matters into political propaganda. “We are not ungrateful people. Hon. Ojotu has shown love and support to Auke, and we acknowledge it. Let’s focus on progress and unity rather than public distractions,” he concluded.
The Auke Development Association has reiterated its commitment to development and called for a collaborative approach in addressing community needs, including ensuring contractors deliver quality work that meets expectations.
