A brewing storm in Nigeria's entertainment scene sees veteran filmmaker and producer Wale Adenuga directly confronting claims of financial hardship from iconic comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, widely known as Papa Ajasco.
Ayoyinka, 65, recently garnered significant attention following an interview where he appealed for fan support, lamenting the sitcom's decline in the digital age and asserting he owns neither a car nor a house, earning only modest fees for new episodes.
Adenuga Dismisses "Misinformation," Affirms Cordial Ties
In a swift and direct response, Wale Adenuga described much of the public reaction to Ayoyinka's interview as being fueled by "misinformation and emotional commentary." The producer, renowned for creating the long-running sitcom, was quick to affirm his strong, cordial relationship with Ayoyinka.
"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," Adenuga stated, implying a strategic motive behind the actor's public appeal.
He further reiterated the closeness of their professional and personal relationship: "He is very close to me, and so far there has been no irreconcilable difference between us."
Rebuttal of Hardship Claims: Cars, House, and Fair Compensation
Adenuga meticulously addressed Ayoyinka's assertions of financial struggle, presenting a counter-narrative of consistent support and fair dealings throughout the actor's tenure with Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP). His points directly challenge the image of neglect:
- Vehicle Provision: "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." This indicates significant vehicular support over the years.
- Property Ownership: Adenuga asserted, "to the best of my knowledge, Ayoyinka owns a house in Ogun State," directly contradicting the actor's claim of lacking personal property.
- Industry-Standard Pay: The producer firmly stated that WAP "pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as and when due." He dismissed any suggestions of financial abandonment or exploitation as "entirely false and misleading."
Trademark Protection and Actor Freedoms Clarified
Beyond financial matters, Adenuga also shed light on the operational aspects concerning the "Papa Ajasco" brand and its actors' engagements:
- Registered Trademark: Papa Ajasco is a registered trademark, meaning its independent use for personal ventures requires 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," Adenuga explained.
- No Restriction on Other Roles: The producer vehemently denied that WAP actors are restricted from pursuing other opportunities. He highlighted that cast members typically spend only about six weeks annually on set to record sufficient episodes for an entire broadcast cycle. "This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles," he emphasized, noting that several cast members regularly feature in other productions using their personal names.
Enduring Legacy and Professional Standards
Despite the recent controversy, Papa Ajasco and Company remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic television comedies, having gained widespread popularity since its inception in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Adenuga affirmed that the programme continues to air on various platforms, and his company remains committed to upholding professional standards in its interactions with all actors and crew members.
The veteran filmmaker concluded by expressing appreciation for public concern, while standing firm against narratives he deems inaccurate.