Nigerian film producer Wale Adenuga has responded to recent claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known for his role as Papa Ajasco, who said he has been facing financial difficulties despite decades in the entertainment industry. Ayoyinka also requested permission to use the Papa Ajasco character for personal projects.
Adenuga described reports of neglect and financial hardship as misleading, while praising Ayoyinka’s significant contributions to the success of the Papa Ajasco and Company series. He stressed that there has been no major fallout between them.
“Abiodun Ayoyinka is a versatile actor who has played the role of Papa Ajasco so wonderfully well. He bears the closest resemblance to the cartoon version of the Papa Ajasco character, which I created on my dining table in 1976 during my publishing days,” Adenuga said. “He is very close to me, and so far, there has been no irreconcilable difference between us.”
Regarding the use of the Papa Ajasco brand, Adenuga clarified that Ayoyinka is free to take on other acting jobs but cannot use the copyrighted brand for personal ventures without approval. “It is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage that could damage its reputation,” he said. Adenuga added that other cast members regularly work on external projects under their own names, highlighting that Wale Adenuga Productions does not restrict artistes from taking other roles.
Addressing the actor’s financial struggle claims, Adenuga questioned Ayoyinka’s assertion of being broke, noting his long career in the Lagos State civil service and prior benefits from Wale Adenuga Productions. “Abiodun Ayoyinka was a civil servant for over three decades and even led the state’s cultural troupe, which earned him recognition from governors, including Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
Adenuga also listed the perks Ayoyinka received over the years, including vehicles provided by the production company and a house in Ogun State. “Now, the question is: why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service with the Lagos State Government? What happened to his gratuities?” he asked.
Reassuring the public of fair treatment, Adenuga said the show requires only six weeks of filming per year, allowing actors ample time for other work. He concluded by emphasizing that Wale Adenuga Productions remains reputable, pays according to industry standards, and maintains strong relationships with its artistes.
“Any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organisation is entirely false and misleading. We sincerely appreciate the concerns and support from our viewers and the general public,” Adenuga stated.
The statement was signed by Wale Adenuga, MFR, Chairman and Executive Producer of Wale Adenuga Productions.
