Veteran Nigerian filmmaker Wale Adenuga has publicly addressed the growing controversy surrounding the iconic comedy franchise Papa Ajasco and Company, offering detailed clarifications on his relationship with actor Abiodun Ayoyinika and the management of the long-running brand.
The statement comes amid widespread public debate triggered by a viral video and a recent media interview granted by Ayoyinika, who is widely recognised for his portrayal of the beloved Papa Ajasco character. The development has sparked emotional reactions from fans and raised broader questions about intellectual property, actor welfare, and transparency in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
In his response, Adenuga said his initial reaction to the trending video was one of surprise but not hostility. According to him, he viewed the actor’s move as an attempt to take the Papa Ajasco comedy style into a more public and digital space.
“My first impression when I watched the video was that he had taken Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space,” Adenuga explained, noting that he was pleased the strategy appeared to be financially beneficial for the actor through social media.
Longstanding Relationship
Providing context, Adenuga described Ayoyinika as a talented and versatile performer who has played the Papa Ajasco role “wonderfully well” over the years. He added that the actor closely resembles the original cartoon version of the character, which he created as far back as 1976 during his early publishing career.
He further emphasised that there has been no major disagreement between both parties, stressing that their relationship remains cordial.
“He is very close to me, and so far, there has been no irreconcilable difference between us,” Adenuga stated.
However, he expressed concern over what he described as “misinformation, emotional commentary, and uninformed public intervention” that followed the actor’s interview. He said his decision to speak was driven by the need to preserve the integrity of a brand that has entertained Nigerians for decades.
Background of the Actor
Adenuga also shed light on Ayoyinika’s professional background outside the entertainment industry. According to him, the actor served as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over 30 years and was a prominent figure in the state’s cultural troupe.
He noted that Ayoyinika’s role in the troupe brought him into contact with notable political figures, including Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his tenure as governor of Lagos State.
Adenuga added that the actor only recently retired from public service and that, during his time in government employment, production teams often had to seek official permission before involving him in filming schedules.
Financial and Welfare Claims
Addressing claims that have circulated online regarding Ayoyinika’s financial situation, Adenuga rejected suggestions that the actor had been neglected or poorly treated by his production company.
He revealed that Ayoyinika had received various forms of support over the years, including the provision of vehicles.
“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 the actor is believed to own a house in Ogun State.
Adenuga questioned why the actor would describe himself as financially struggling, pointing to his long career in public service and presumed retirement benefits.
“Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service? What happened to his gratuities?” he asked.
Brand Protection and Copyright
A major point of clarification in Adenuga’s statement was the issue of intellectual property rights. He stressed that the name “Papa Ajasco” is a copyrighted brand owned by his company and cannot be used independently without approval.
According to him, this restriction is not intended to limit the actor’s opportunities but to protect the reputation and consistency of the brand.
“He cannot use the copyrighted brand name for personal ventures because it is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage,” Adenuga explained.
He also clarified that Ayoyinika has not been barred from taking up advertisement or acting jobs outside the production. Instead, he said, the only requirement is that such engagements receive official approval from Wale Adenuga Productions, in line with standard brand management practices.
Work Structure and Industry Practices
In further defence of his organisation, Adenuga explained the production structure of Papa Ajasco and Company, noting that actors typically spend only about six weeks each year on set.
During this period, he said, enough episodes are recorded to last for an entire year of broadcasting. This arrangement, he argued, provides cast members with ample time to pursue other professional and business opportunities.
He cited other actors associated with the show—such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma—as individuals who continue to feature in various film projects outside the series.
“This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles,” he said.
Enduring Legacy of the Show
Adenuga also used the opportunity to highlight the continued success and relevance of Papa Ajasco and Company, which remains one of Nigeria’s most recognisable television comedy series.
The show still airs on major platforms, including the Nigerian Television Authority, STV, WAPTV, and other terrestrial and cable channels, as well as on YouTube.
Since its creation in 1976, the franchise has become a cultural staple, known for its humorous take on everyday Nigerian life and its memorable cast of characters.
Defence of Wale Adenuga Productions
Reaffirming his company’s reputation, Adenuga stated that Wale Adenuga Productions has consistently maintained professional relationships with its artistes and crew members.
He insisted that the organisation pays according to industry standards and fulfills its financial obligations promptly.
“Any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organisation is entirely false and misleading,” he said.
Public Interest and Industry Debate
The controversy has continued to generate conversation across Nigeria, with many members of the public expressing concern about the welfare of veteran actors and the structure of the entertainment industry.
While some have sympathised with Ayoyinika and called for better support systems for ageing performers, others have backed Adenuga’s stance on brand protection and contractual discipline.
Industry observers say the situation reflects a broader challenge within Nollywood and television production, where issues of intellectual property rights, revenue sharing, and long-term welfare often come into focus.