Veteran filmmaker and CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga, has dismissed claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as Papa Ajasco, that he is broke, describing the narrative as false and misleading.
Ayoyinka had stirred reactions online after alleging financial hardship despite his long-running role in the TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Adenuga rejected suggestions of neglect and provided details about his professional relationship with the actor. He said his initial reaction to the viral video was that Ayoyinka had taken the Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space as part of a social media strategy, which he noted appeared to be working for him.
Adenuga described Ayoyinka as a versatile actor who closely resembles the original Papa Ajasco character he created in 1976, adding that there has been no irreconcilable disagreement between them. He explained that his response was intended to address what he called misinformation and emotional commentary surrounding the issue, while preserving the integrity of a brand that has entertained Nigerians for decades.
He further noted that Ayoyinka worked as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over 30 years and was once the face of its cultural troupe, earning recognition from leaders including Bola Tinubu during his tenure as governor. According to Adenuga, the actor only recently retired, and the production team often had to seek official permission from his workplace before involving him in filming.
Addressing claims of neglect, Adenuga stated that the company had supported Ayoyinka over the years, including providing him with a car—similar to another cast member, Pa James—and noted that the actor had used several vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz, and owns a house in Ogun State.
He clarified that restrictions on using the “Papa Ajasco” brand for personal ventures are necessary to protect its integrity, but stressed that actors are free to take on other jobs, including advertisements, provided they obtain approval from the company.
Questioning Ayoyinka’s claim of financial hardship, Adenuga asked what had become of his earnings and retirement benefits from decades of public service. He also pointed out that other cast members—such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma—regularly feature in other productions, indicating there are no restrictions on external engagements. He added that actors typically spend only about six weeks each year on set, leaving ample time for other pursuits.
Adenuga maintained that the organisation meets industry standards in its payments and fulfils all financial obligations promptly, insisting that any claims of abandonment or exploitation are unfounded. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to professionalism and thanked the public for its concern and continued support.
ADEOLA KUNLE
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