Veteran filmmaker and CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga, has refuted claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as Papa Ajasco, that he is facing financial hardship.
Ayoyinka recently stirred reactions online after alleging he was broke despite his long-running role in the TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Adenuga described the claim as “false and misleading,” while clarifying the nature of their professional relationship.
Reacting to a viral video featuring the actor, Adenuga said he initially viewed it as part of Ayoyinka’s attempt to monetise his popularity on social media, adding that he was pleased the strategy appeared to be working.
He described Ayoyinka as a versatile performer who closely mirrors the original Papa Ajasco character created in 1976, noting that there has been no serious dispute between them.
Adenuga explained that Ayoyinka had a long career as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government and only retired recently, adding that the production team often sought official permission before engaging him for filming.
Addressing allegations of neglect, Adenuga maintained that the company had supported the actor over the years. He revealed that Ayoyinka had been given a car, used several others including a Mercedes-Benz and owns a house in Ogun State.
He also clarified that while actors must obtain approval before using the “Papa Ajasco” brand for personal projects, they are free to take on other jobs.
Questioning the actor’s claim of financial distress, Adenuga asked what became of his earnings and retirement benefits from over three decades in public service.
He further noted that other cast members including Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma regularly feature in other productions, stressing that the company does not restrict actors from external opportunities.
According to him, cast members typically spend only about six weeks a year on set, leaving ample time for other engagements.
Adenuga concluded that the organisation meets its financial obligations in line with industry standards and insisted that any suggestion of neglect or exploitation is unfounded. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining strong professional relationships and thanked the public for its continued support.
Advertisement
