This might be because you modified the Map Magnifier setting? This basically makes the app behave like it would be in a far more zoomed in state than it actually is. Try setting it back to 100%, it’s in Configure Map - Map Settings
Please notice you had the option Show POI overlay set to Nearest POIs
Yes, pretty messy.
On Configure screen you can add Quick actions and these can be: Show/Hide POI
You will be able to chose the POI category you want. And as many buttons you want.
Like this you can have the show/hide button on the main screen and never allow the show nearest POI option to be enabled.
And this will be identical to the play$tore version of OsmAnd
I’m sorry to hear you had such lame reply from their community.