Nigerian film producer Wale Adenuga has addressed recent claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, famously known for playing Papa Ajasco, who revealed that he has been struggling financially despite decades in the entertainment industry.
Ayoyinka also mentioned that he seeks permission to use the Papa Ajasco role for personal ventures.
Adenuga Dismisses Allegations as Misleading
In a detailed statement, Adenuga described the reports of neglect and financial hardship as misleading, while praising Ayoyinka’s contributions to the success of the Papa Ajasco and Company series.
He emphasized that there has been no major fallout between them.
“Abiodun Ayoyinka is a versatile actor who has played the role of Papa Ajasco so wonderfully well. He bears the closest resemblance to the cartoon version of the Papa Ajasco character, which I created on my dining table in 1976 during my publishing days,” Adenuga said.
He added, “He is very close to me, and so far, there has been no irreconcilable difference between us.”
On Using the Papa Ajasco Brand
Adenuga clarified that while Ayoyinka is free to take on other acting jobs, he cannot use the copyrighted Papa Ajasco brand without official approval.
“He cannot use the copyrighted brand name Papa Ajasco for personal ventures because it is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage that could damage its reputation,” Adenuga explained.
The producer also reminded the public that other cast members are free to work outside the show. “His colleagues at WAP such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma are always on various film locations, working under their personal names.
This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles,” he said.
Addressing Financial Struggles Claims
Adenuga questioned Ayoyinka’s claim of being broke, pointing out the actor’s long career in civil service and previous benefits from Wale Adenuga Productions.
“Abiodun Ayoyinka was a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over three decades. He 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.
He retired not too long ago. In fact, we used to seek permission from his office anytime we needed him on location,” Adenuga stated.
He also listed the perks Ayoyinka had received over the years: “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 MercedesBenz, at different times. And to the best of my knowledge, he has a house in Ogun State.”
“Now, the question is: why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service with the Lagos State Government? What happened to his gratuities?” Adenuga asked.
Commitment to Fair Treatment
Adenuga reassured that Wale Adenuga Productions remains committed to fair treatment of its artistes. He explained that the show only requires six weeks of filming per year, giving actors plenty of time for other work.
“To further buttress this, Abiodun Ayoyinka and other artistes in the TV show are on our set for 6 weeks in a whole year, thereby availing them enough time to pursue other endeavors. It is important to note that within the 6 weeks, we record enough episodes to last for a year,” Adenuga noted.
He concluded by affirming the company’s reputation and adherence to industry standards:
“Wale Adenuga Productions has remained reputable over the years, maintaining cordial working relationships with artistes and crew members alike.
The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as at when due.
Therefore, any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organisation is entirely false and misleading. We sincerely appreciate the concerns and support from our viewers and the general public.”
Signed,
Wale Adenuga, MFR Chairman/Executive Producer, Wale Adenuga Productions.
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