Wale Adenuga Refutes Papa Ajasco’s Claims of Financial Hardship

Veteran filmmaker and CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, Wale Adenuga, has dismissed claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as Papa Ajasco, that he is facing financial difficulties.

Ayoyinka’s recent interview, which sparked widespread discussion online, alleged financial struggles despite his decades-long role in the iconic TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Adenuga described these claims as “false and misleading,” emphasizing his longstanding professional relationship with the actor.

“My first reaction when I saw the video was to note that he has successfully taken the Papa Ajasco brand into the public space. I am happy for him that his social media strategy seems to be working,” Adenuga said.

He praised Ayoyinka as a “versatile actor” who closely resembles the character Adenuga created in 1976. He also highlighted the actor’s service with the Lagos State Government, including his time as the face of the state’s cultural troupe, and noted that the two have had no irreconcilable differences.

Addressing accusations of neglect, Adenuga stated that the production company has supported Ayoyinka over the years. “On the car issue, we once gave him a car — and Pa James as well. He has used at least five cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, at different times. To the best of my knowledge, he also owns a house in Ogun State,” he said.

Adenuga explained that restrictions on the use of the “Papa Ajasco” brand for personal ventures were necessary to protect its integrity but clarified that actors were free to pursue other jobs, including advertising work, with company approval.

Questioning Ayoyinka’s claims of financial hardship, Adenuga asked: “Why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? What happened to his gratuities and other investments from over 30 years of service with the Lagos State Government?”

He added that other cast members, including Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma, regularly work on external projects, highlighting that the company does not restrict artistes from outside engagements. Actors typically spend only six weeks a year on set, allowing time for other pursuits.

“The organisation pays according to industry standards and fulfills all financial obligations. Any suggestion of neglect or exploitation is entirely false,” Adenuga concluded, reaffirming the company’s commitment to professional relationships and thanking the public for their continued support.