Veteran filmmaker and media entrepreneur Wale Adenuga has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding Papa Ajasco, dismissing claims of neglect and financial hardship made by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka.
In a detailed statement, Adenuga said his initial reaction to the now-viral video featuring Ayoyinka was one of amusement, suggesting the actor may be leveraging the character’s popularity for social media gains.
“I felt he had taken the Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space. If it’s a money-making strategy, then it appears to be working for him,” Adenuga stated.
He described Ayoyinka as a talented and versatile performer who closely resembles the original Papa Ajasco character he created in 1976, adding that there has been no personal rift between them.
Addressing the backlash that followed Ayoyinka’s recent interview, Adenuga said he was compelled to respond in order to correct what he called widespread misinformation and protect the legacy of the long-running comedy franchise.
Adenuga revealed that Ayoyinka had a long career with the Lagos State Government, serving for over 30 years and even representing the state’s cultural troupe. He noted that during that time, production schedules often required official clearance from the actor’s workplace.
He also dismissed claims of neglect, stating that Wale Adenuga Productions had supported the actor over the years, including providing him with vehicles.
“We 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 the issue of brand restrictions, Adenuga explained that Ayoyinka cannot use the Papa Ajasco name for personal ventures due to copyright protections, stressing that such measures are necessary to safeguard the integrity of the brand.
He, however, clarified that actors are free to take on other roles and endorsement deals, provided they obtain formal approval from the company.
Questioning the actor’s claims of financial hardship, Adenuga asked what had become of his earnings and retirement benefits after decades of public service.
“Where are the investments from his over 30 years of service? What happened to his gratuities?” he queried.
Adenuga further noted that other cast members including Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma remain active in other productions, demonstrating that the company does not restrict its artistes.
He added that actors typically spend only about six weeks annually on set, during which enough episodes are produced to last an entire year, leaving them ample time to pursue other ventures.
The Papa Ajasco and Company series continues to air on multiple platforms, including terrestrial and cable networks, as well as online channels, maintaining its status as one of Nigeria’s most enduring comedy productions.
Reaffirming the company’s reputation, Adenuga stressed that all financial obligations are met in line with industry standards and described allegations of exploitation as “entirely false and misleading.”
He concluded by thanking viewers and the public for their continued support and concern.
