Renowned filmmaker and CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga, has refuted claims made by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, widely recognised as Papa Ajasco, regarding alleged financial struggles.
Ayoyinka had recently sparked conversations online after suggesting that he was experiencing financial difficulties despite his longstanding involvement in the television series Papa Ajasco and Company.
In response, Adenuga, speaking on Wednesday, dismissed the assertion as inaccurate and misleading. He explained that the actor is not restricted from pursuing external opportunities, including advertising roles, but is expected to obtain proper authorization in accordance with brand management guidelines associated with the franchise.
Adenuga further described Ayoyinka as a talented performer whose resemblance to the original Papa Ajasco character, first created in 1976, played a significant role in his casting. He also emphasized that there has been no major conflict between both parties.
Providing additional context, Adenuga revealed that Ayoyinka previously had a long-standing career as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government, where he worked for over 30 years and was actively involved in the state’s cultural troupe.
He said, “Candidly, I want to address the wave of misinformation, emotional commentary, and uninformed public intervention that has followed his recent media interview. I am doing this not with malice, but in the interest of truth, transparency, and the integrity of a legacy that has entertained millions of Nigerians for decades.
“I am doing this not with malice, but in the interest of truth, transparency, and the integrity of a legacy that has entertained millions of Nigerians for decades. 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.”
Addressing public reactions to the actor’s claims, Adenuga stated that his comments were intended to correct widespread misinformation and present a clearer picture of the situation, stressing the importance of preserving the legacy of a show that has entertained Nigerians for decades.
On the issue of alleged neglect, Adenuga maintained that the production company had consistently supported Ayoyinka over the years, noting that he had benefitted from various forms of assistance, including vehicles, and is believed to own property in Ogun State.
“We gave him a car at some point, just as we did for Pa James. He has also used several vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz. To the best of my knowledge, he also owns a house in Ogun State,” he said.
He also clarified that while actors are free to explore other ventures, the use of the “Papa Ajasco” name is restricted due to copyright protections aimed at safeguarding the brand’s reputation.
“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 said.
Questioning the basis of Ayoyinka’s financial struggles, Adenuga pointed to the actor’s lengthy public service career and retirement benefits, raising concerns about how such resources were managed. He asked: “Why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service… What happened to his gratuities?”
He added that other members of the cast, including the character Pa James, continue to take on independent roles outside the show. According to him, actors typically spend only 6 weeks each year filming, leaving sufficient time to engage in other income-generating activities.
Adenuga concluded by reaffirming his commitment to professionalism and expressed appreciation to the public for their continued concern and support.
