Veteran Nigerian producer Wale Adenuga has finally responded to actor Abiodun Ayoyinka’s recent revelation about financial difficulties.
Ayoyinka, who famously portrays the beloved Papa Ajasco, had stated that he struggles financially despite his long career in acting and civil service. He also expressed interest in using the Papa Ajasco brand for personal ventures.
Adenuga quickly addressed these claims, describing them as misleading, and highlighted Ayoyinka’s invaluable role in shaping the iconic comedy series Papa Ajasco and Company.
“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 added, “He is very close to me, and so far, there has been no irreconcilable difference between us.”
Clarifying Brand Rights
The producer made it clear that Ayoyinka is free to accept other acting jobs but must obtain approval to use the Papa Ajasco brand, which remains copyrighted.
“He cannot use the copyrighted brand name Papa Ajasco for personal ventures because it is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage that could damage its reputation,” Adenuga emphasized.
Other cast members, he explained, enjoy the freedom to work on projects outside the show.
“His colleagues at WAP such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma are always on various film locations, working under their personal names. This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles,” Adenuga noted.Movies
Addressing Allegations of Hardship
Responding to Ayoyinka’s claims of financial struggle, Adenuga highlighted the actor’s decades-long civil service career and other benefits he received from the company.
“Abiodun Ayoyinka was a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over three decades.
He was even the face of the state’s cultural troupe, which endeared him to the likes of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his time as governor, as well as his successors. He retired not too long ago. In fact, we used to seek permission from his office anytime we needed him on location,” Adenuga said.
Adenuga also listed material perks Ayoyinka had over the years:
“On the car issue, we once gave him a car and Pa James as well.
He has also used not less than five cars, including a MercedesBenz, at different times. And to the best of my knowledge, he has 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?” Adenuga asked.Geographic Reference
Maintaining Fairness and Legacy
Adenuga reassured fans that Papa Ajasco and Company continues to operate fairly and professionally.
Actors only spend about six weeks a year on set, giving them ample time to pursue other opportunities. “Within the 6 weeks, we record enough episodes to last for a year,” he added.
“Wale Adenuga Productions has remained reputable over the years, maintaining cordial working relationships with artistes and crew members alike.
The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as at when due. Any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation is entirely false and misleading,” he concluded.
Signed,
Wale Adenuga, MFR Chairman/Executive Producer, Wale Adenuga Productions.
While the debate over Abiodun Ayoyinka’s financial situation continues to draw public attention, Wale Adenuga’s statement highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights, long-standing professional relationships, and the responsibilities of both producers and actors.
Fans and industry observers are left to navigate the conversation with a better understanding of the balance between creative contributions, brand protection, and personal financial management in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
