Allegation of financial struggles by Papa Ajasco is false, according to Wale Adenuga

Veteran filmmaker Wale Adenuga, who serves as Chief Executive Officer of Wale Adenuga Productions, has come forward to refute claims made by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, also known as Papa Ajasco, regarding his alleged financial struggles.

n

Recently, Ayoyinka's statement about being broke despite his long-standing role in the popular television series Papa Ajasco and Company sparked a significant reaction online.

n

In a statement released on Wednesday, Adenuga described Ayoyinka's claims as "false and misleading", emphasizing that the actor is not prohibited from taking on advertising jobs, but rather required to obtain official approval in accordance with brand protection policies tied to the Papa Ajasco and Company franchise.

n

Adenuga praised Ayoyinka as a versatile actor who bears a striking resemblance to the original Papa Ajasco character he created in 1976, and noted that there has been no serious disagreement between them.

n

Providing background information, Adenuga explained that Ayoyinka had a long career as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government, where he served for over three decades and was part of the state's cultural troupe.

n

Adenuga stated, "Candidly, I want to address the wave of misinformation, emotional commentary, and uninformed public intervention that has followed his recent media interview."

n

He clarified that his intention is to provide truth, transparency, and protect the integrity of a legacy that has entertained millions of Nigerians for decades, and noted that Abiodun Ayoyinka was a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over three decades.

n

Ayoyinka 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, and he retired not too long ago.

n

Adenuga recalled that they used to seek permission from Ayoyinka's office anytime they needed him on location, highlighting the close relationship between the actor and the production company.

n

Regarding allegations of neglect, Adenuga said the production company had supported the actor over the years, providing him with a car, just as they did for Pa James, and that Ayoyinka has also used several vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz.

n

Adenuga also mentioned that, to the best of his knowledge, Ayoyinka owns a house in Ogun State, further questioning the claims of financial hardship.

n

He clarified that restrictions on the use of the "Papa Ajasco" brand for personal ventures are necessary to protect its identity, stressing that actors are not barred from taking on other jobs, but rather, they cannot use the copyrighted brand name for personal ventures.

n

Adenuga questioned Ayoyinka's claims of financial hardship, asking, "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?"

n

Adenuga noted that other cast members of the series, including Pa James and other popular characters, continue to take on independent roles outside the show, and that actors typically spend only about six weeks annually on set, giving them ample time for other ventures.

n

Adenuga reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining professional relationships and thanked the public for its concern and support.