Veteran Nigerian filmmaker and producer Wale Adenuga has responded to recent claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka regarding challenges associated with portraying the iconic character in the long-running comedy series Papa Ajasco & Company.
In a statement released by Wale Adenuga Productions, the filmmaker dismissed allegations of exploitation and financial neglect, describing the claims as “entirely false and misleading.”
Ayoyinka, popularly known for playing Papa Ajasco, had earlier stated in an interview that the trademark nature of the character limited his opportunities outside the show.
Reacting to the remarks, Adenuga said he was surprised by the video circulating online. “My first impression when I watched the Papa Ajasco video now trending on the internet and local TV channels was, ‘Okay, so this guy has taken Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space?’” he said, adding that he was pleased the actor was using social media to generate income.
However, Adenuga stressed that the “Papa Ajasco” brand is legally protected and cannot be used for personal ventures without authorization. “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,” he stated.
He clarified that Ayoyinka is not barred from accepting advertisement jobs or other roles but must seek approval from the production company as part of protecting the brand.
Adenuga also pointed out that Ayoyinka, a retired civil servant, served the Lagos State Government for over three decades and had benefited from several incentives during his time with the show.
“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 Mercedes-Benz, at different times,” Adenuga said.
Questioning the actor’s claims of financial hardship, he asked what had become of the benefits from his years of public service, including gratuities.
He further noted that other cast members of the series continue to take on independent roles outside the show, adding that actors typically spend only about six weeks each year on set while enough episodes are recorded to last the entire year.
Reaffirming the company’s reputation, Adenuga maintained that the production outfit pays according to industry standards and meets all financial obligations.
“Any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organization is entirely false and misleading,” he concluded.