Veteran filmmaker and CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga, has dismissed claims that actor Abiodun Ayoyinka—popularly known as Papa Ajasco—is facing financial hardship.
Ayoyinka had stirred public debate after alleging he was broke despite decades of starring in the iconic TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.
Responding in a statement on Wednesday, Adenuga described the narrative as “false and misleading,” suggesting instead that the actor’s remarks may be part of a social media strategy.
“My first impression when I saw the trending video was that he had taken the Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space. I am happy for him if it is a money-making strategy that is working,” Adenuga said.
The media executive emphasised that Ayoyinka remains a respected figure, noting his close resemblance to the original Papa Ajasco character created in 1976 and describing him as a versatile actor with whom he has maintained a cordial relationship.
Adenuga also highlighted the actor’s background as a former civil servant with the Lagos State Government, where he served for over three decades before retiring. He explained that during that period, production schedules often required official permission from Ayoyinka’s workplace.
Addressing allegations of neglect, Adenuga insisted that his company had supported the actor over the years, including providing vehicles and opportunities.
“We once gave him a car, just as we did for other cast members. He has used several vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz, and to the best of my knowledge, he owns a house in Ogun State,” he said.
On restrictions surrounding the use of the Papa Ajasco brand, Adenuga clarified that such measures are necessary to protect its identity, adding that actors are not barred from taking on other jobs as long as proper approval is obtained.
Questioning the basis of Ayoyinka’s claims, Adenuga asked what had become of the actor’s earnings and retirement benefits from his years in public service.
He further noted that other cast members—such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma—continue to feature in other productions, stressing that the company does not limit actors’ external engagements.
According to him, cast members typically spend only a few weeks annually on set, leaving ample time for other ventures.
“The organisation pays according to industry standards and meets its financial obligations. Any suggestion of exploitation or abandonment is entirely false,” Adenuga said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining professional relationships while thanking the public for its continued interest in the long-running comedy franchise.
