Founder of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga MFR, has addressed recent claims by veteran actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, known for his role as Papa Ajasco, dismissing suggestions of neglect and financial hardship.
Adenuga, in a statement, said he was compelled to respond following what he described as widespread misinformation and emotional reactions trailing Ayoyinka’s recent media interview.
He described Ayoyinka as a talented actor who closely resembles the original Papa Ajasco character he created in 1976, adding that there has been no irreconcilable disagreement between them.
The producer noted that Ayoyinka had a long career as a civil servant with the Lagos State Government, serving for over three decades, and was actively involved in cultural performances during his service.
Addressing claims of financial neglect, Adenuga said the actor had benefited from several forms of support over the years, including the provision of vehicles, adding that he has also owned multiple cars and a house in Ogun State.
He explained that while Ayoyinka is free to take up other acting roles, he cannot use the Papa Ajasco brand independently for personal ventures due to copyright protection, noting that such measures are necessary to preserve the integrity of the brand.
Adenuga added that the actors in the Papa Ajasco series are engaged for only about 6 weeks annually for production, leaving them ample time to pursue other opportunities. “The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as and when due. Therefore, any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organisation is entirely false and misleading,” he said.
He reaffirmed that the long-running Papa Ajasco and Company remains active across multiple platforms, including terrestrial television and YouTube. He maintained that the company has upheld a strong reputation and cordial relationships with its artistes over the years.
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