Veteran filmmaker and producer Wale Adenuga has responded to claims by comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka that he is experiencing financial hardship despite decades in the entertainment industry.
Ayoyinka, popularly known for his role as Papa Ajasco, earlier disclosed in an interview with media personality Lucky Udu, where he appealed to fans to continue supporting Papa Ajasco and Company.
The 65-year-old actor noted that the once-popular sitcom has struggled to retain its prominence in the era of social media and digital streaming, adding that he owns neither a personal car nor a house and earns modest fees when new episodes are produced.
In a statement issued in response, Adenuga described much of the reaction to the interview as driven by “misinformation and emotional commentary”, while affirming that he maintains a cordial relationship with the actor.
“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.’
“It is all well and good. I am happy for him, as his money-making strategy using social media has apparently worked for him,” he said.
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Adenuga added that Ayoyinka had played the role successfully for many years and remained close to him.
“He is very close to me, and so far there has been no irreconcilable difference between us,” he said.
Addressing claims of financial hardship, the producer stated that the actor had benefited from various forms of support during his time on 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,” he said, adding that, to the best of his knowledge, Ayoyinka owns a house in Ogun State.
Adenuga also clarified that Papa Ajasco is a registered trademark, which restricts its independent use for personal ventures.
“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.
He, however, noted that the actor is not barred from taking advertising jobs, provided he obtains official approval from Wale Adenuga Productions.
“As he himself stated, all that is required is to seek official approval from WAP. This is part of brand protection,” he added.
The producer further dismissed suggestions that actors on the sitcom are restricted from pursuing other opportunities, noting that several cast members regularly feature in other productions using their personal names.
According to him, cast members typically spend about six weeks annually on set, during which sufficient episodes are recorded for an entire broadcast cycle.
“This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles,” he said.
Papa Ajasco and Company, created by Adenuga, remains one of Nigeria’s most recognisable television comedies, gaining widespread popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Adenuga said the programme continues to air on platforms, maintaining that the company adheres to professional standards in its dealings with actors and crew.
“The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as and when due.
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